Remembering Robert Frascino, M.D.

This page contains a collection of thoughts from TheBody.com's staff and team of experts on the passing of Dr. Frascino. Please share your personal thoughts via the comments section.

If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Bob's life and accomplishments, we encourage you to read his obituary, which was published in the San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Sept. 30.

Robert James Frascino, M.D., our long-time friend and expert, passed away on Saturday from bacterial sepsis. He was 59 years old. Known as "Dr. Bob" to so many, he was easily one of the most incredible and inspiring people I have ever had the privilege of knowing.

Bob was a brilliant immunologist who was working in HIV well before he became HIV positive in 1991. In the mid-90s, he and his husband, Steve Natterstad, M.D. formed a charity called The Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation which has raised more than $1,500,000 for various HIV/AIDS causes. Each year, Bob and Steve, both pianists, perform at their benefit called A Concerted Effort. Tragically, the event was to be held this past Sunday, the day after Bob's passing.

He answered nearly 30,000 questions over that time period -- truly astounding. Any other person would have burnt out years ago, but Bob was going just as strong last week as the day he started. No matter how inane or serious the question, Bob always found a way to bring humor to every response. He never sugar-coated anything, never shied away from his political inclinations and never met a pun he didn't like. His singular wit made his forums a must read for HIV-positive and HIV-negative people alike.

I know that his work on our site meant as much to him as it did to the multitudes he helped. I can truly say that our lives (and our site) will never be the same without his limitless generosity, ebullient spirit and undying passion.
As we mourn Bob's passing, we celebrate all that he accomplished in his remarkable life. Our thoughts are with Steve and their families. I would encourage you all to donate to Bob and Steve's foundation in his memory.

-- Aryeh Lebeau, general manager of TheBody.com and TheBodyPRO.com

When you're a part of the HIV/AIDS community, you tend to accept -- a little more readily than others might -- that death will come to us all eventually. That doesn't make it suck any less when it comes. Many of us, whether we're living with HIV or not, end up living far longer than we could have hoped. Bob was taken away from us far sooner than I could have remotely imagined.

There are people you meet, in the course of your work and your life, who become fixtures in your mind, in your soul. They are your rocks, the people you know will always be there, the people who represent ideals you wish you could achieve. In life -- and now, as I have to accept, in death -- Bob is my ever-smiling vision of patient, unrelenting optimism in the face of an ocean of doubt. His capacity for giving was stunning. It was endless. What you can see of him on our site -- in his forums, as well as his blog -- barely scratches the surface.

That said, though, when I look at Bob's last post in his "Safe Sex" forum, which he wrote three days before he died, I feel it's so perfectly emblematic of what I loved about him: His humor, his patience, his unwavering positivity, and the sheer depth of his care and compassion for people in need of help and advice. When you were around Bob, you just couldn't help but feel happier; imagine how you feel reading any of the thousands of missives he wrote on our site, and then amplify it a hundredfold.

I had already cherished my memories of the time I've been able to spend with Bob and Steve, and regretted how infrequent those opportunities were. Bob's passing does nothing to alter that. It just makes me unspeakably sad that I won't be able to add new memories of him to the shoebox I hold close and warm next to my heart.

When I started at TheBody.com, my first few weeks of work consisted largely of trying to learn my way around this huge website. More than anything else, I spent time reading through Dr. Bob's forum on safer sex and prevention. I was drawn to it not only because it was entertaining to read, but because it exemplifies what TheBody.com has tried to do: provide accurate, important information to the people who need it most. Dr. Bob was a champion of doing exactly that.

One of the strange realities of working at a website is how well you can feel you know someone you've never even met face to face. I almost can't believe I never so much as spoke to Dr. Bob on the phone, because his warmth and charm radiated from every word he wrote.

He will be, and is already, deeply missed.

-- Becky Allen, site manager of TheBody.com and TheBodyPRO.com

While we never met in person, I have counted Bob as a friend for over a decade. All those years ago, when I was relatively new to the science of HIV, I wrote him with a few questions about something he had written for TheBody.com. I was surprised by his response. He had taken the time to explain much more than I was asking, and peppered his response with his unique humor and style. That email started our long, long-distance relationship through which he continued to expand my understanding of HIV. However, my most cherished moments with him were when we went "off topic" into music, politics, travel and life in general. He was not only a hilarious man with much to say, but also a genuinely interested and engaged listener.

I have been astounded by the incredible amount of time Bob devoted to TheBody.com over the years. I have seen him help so many people, providing them with information and lifting their spirits in a way that only he could. If the measure of a life well lived is based on the number of lives a person touches in a positive way, then Bob lived far better than anyone I've ever known.

-- Ken Stockwell, web producer of TheBody.com and TheBodyPRO.com

In the following posts, some of TheBody.com's experts answer readers' questions about Dr. Bob's passing:

Comment by: John
(Singapore)
Wed., May. 25, 2016 at 11:31 am UTC
Dr. Bob's knowledge and humor still teaches us. It's almost half a decade after he left and he is still giving. Thank you Dr. Bob, A very big thank you.

Comment by: Rick
(Los Angeles, CA)
Sat., May. 14, 2016 at 5:30 pm UTC
I had an HIV scare in 2006, and it was Dr Bob's words that got me through the anxiety-ridden days waiting to be tested. I was sad to know that he passed away; I cannot be more grateful to him for his words of wisdom and kindness. RIP Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Ken
(Philippines)
Wed., Dec. 23, 2015 at 12:07 pm UTC
I'm absolutely heart broken. I've been reading do many responses mostly from Dr. Bob and I had no idea he is no longer with us. Dr. Bob you are and were a hero. Dr. Bob got to to man up and get tested after the 3 month mark. I still have 2 more months to go and I never been more scared in my life but Dr. Bob's words have been a huge help. May you rest in peace Dr. Bob. We all miss you so much and always will. Whether the results are good or bad I hope I have at least 1/10 of the strength Dr. Bob had. RIP Dr. Bob you'll never be forgotten.

Comment by: Jim
(MIami, FL)
Sun., Feb. 8, 2015 at 10:01 pm UTC
I am so sorry Dr.Bob. i think i came to you via website 15years ago scared out of my mind about a silly lap dance exposure.. i remember u were so patient with me and just a super nice guys.. I have not been to this site in years and so sorry to hear this.. You legacy will be left with many.. RIP my friend!

Comment by: Jimmy Taylor
(San Francisco)
Sun., Jan. 18, 2015 at 10:47 am UTC
Meandering through the site and just saw that Dr. Bob passed away 3 years ago. I'm one of those anxious hetero's, freaking out, breaking down, worried that my "slip up" was going to lead to the scariest 3 letters I thought I knew at the time. I read a lot of Dr. Bob's responses. A lot. I was manic and focused and would comb just about anything seeking comfort. He had a way of explaining things accurately, but combined levity to almost make me realize that I might not be in the most practical of mindsets. If I look back on my more active days, I would say Dr. Bob's posts were what ultimately got me to buck up and get tested. My fears, as irrational as they were, were treated with care and detail and although I never spoke to or met Dr. Bob, I'm very sad to hear about his passing.

RIP Dr. Bob, you were major part of my support system and I'm forever grateful

Comment by: Hassan
(Malaysia)
Mon., Dec. 15, 2014 at 3:46 am UTC
WOW! I didn't know Dr.Bob passed away in 2011. I think I first visited this site somewhere in 2012 looking for answers after an exposure. I've read numerous answers from Dr.Bob and his humor was hilarious and though I never talked to him, I've always counted him as a good friend. Thank you for your awesome answers Dr.Bob...you maybe gone but your answers will continue to live on and help many folks like me. Whereever you're I hope you're doing good Dr.Bob and keep on Wooohooing

Comment by: Ron A
(Dallas TX)
Thu., Oct. 16, 2014 at 5:47 pm UTC
No words can express my sorrow at his passing. While I never knew Dr Bob, personally, I felt as if I had known him. As someone who has been around the community since 1980, my life has been touched so many times by this terrible disease that has brought so many people together in ways they would have never been otherwise. THANK YOU Dr. Bob and partner for opening your lives up to so many people you never knew.

Comment by: Swapnil chandawale
(india)
Sun., Oct. 5, 2014 at 12:56 pm UTC
MAY BE GOD Wanted an ANGEL
To help him to get rid of the devil he created.
Such a beautiful angel
So much of generosity of spirit.
So much of strength of character.
So much for sense of humour.
Wish you were here.

Comment by: Walter
(Louisiana)
Fri., Aug. 22, 2014 at 1:45 am UTC
Dr. Bob, words cannot express how much your kind words helped me when I thought I couldn't go any further. I never needed to post anything as reading your responses to others provided me with all the information and encouragement I needed. I came specifically to this site after 6 years looking to follow-up on you. Although I turned out to be HIV neg, it was your kind spirit that lead me to donate to the foundation and become a voice for the cause. You will be truly missed! RIP my brother.

Comment by: Doug
(Texas)
Thu., Jul. 31, 2014 at 2:01 pm UTC
I've read so many of Dr. Bob's posts over the past few days, I feel like I really got to know him well. Such a great man and really good sense of humor. I'm embarrassed to say I never heard of Dr. Bob before I had my own scarey situation to research online and came across his many posts calming the fears of others who had a similar situation. After a few days of reading his posts I learned that he had died a few years ago. It was very sad, I thought as I read his posts he was still with us and talking directly to me. After learning that he died, I read so much about his life and his attitude towards life, it's just so inspiring. I'm not great with words, but wanted to thank you Dr. Bob. You helped me now, even after so much time has passed since you left us. Rest in Peace

Comment by: ginger
(California)
Wed., Jul. 16, 2014 at 10:58 pm UTC
I am a health care professional that experienced a needle stick in 1999. Dr. Bob helped to alleviate my fears and helped me through a very scary time. I was upset to find out that he had passed. What I'll remember most besides his unwavering compassion, was his sense of humor. Fly high among the angels Dr. Bob, as I am sure that is now where you are.

Comment by: JC Sanchez
(Connecticut)
Wed., Mar. 5, 2014 at 8:33 pm UTC
I remember I used to ask DR Bob the same question all the Time and he will answer me ll the time.
That`s the dedication he had… RIP
You are and will always be the Man!!!

Comment by: Anonymous
(Singapore)
Fri., Dec. 20, 2013 at 4:02 pm UTC
I would like to Thanks Sir Bob who helped thousands of us . Bob was a great person and I hope his legacy would inspire , encourage the people world over .

Comment by: Mark Vinette
(St. Petersburg, Fl)
Fri., Sep. 27, 2013 at 6:42 pm UTC
I am quite saddened by the passing of Dr. Bob. I have been following him for years and although I never met him I felt as if I knew him. His smile made me always feel welcome to ask a question and I looked forward to his commentaries and writings every time I received my email from The Body. What a shame that he contracted HIV from a professional exposure. I had no idea he was so sick yet he kept all of us informed by his writings. I feel like I have lost a friend and to his husband, I am so sorry for your loss. The world has lost a great person, mentor and human being. He is now looking down at us from Heaven. I have no doubt whatsoever. Thank you Dr. Bob for everything you have done for all of us.

Comment by: Song
(China, PR)
Sat., Aug. 3, 2013 at 1:26 am UTC
I came to know Dr. Bob when I was still a college boy in 2008. I asked him an AIDS-prevention question and Dr. Bob replied me in no time. His professional and humor answer cleared up the clouds and inspired me with an optimistic attitude towards life. Thank you so much Dr. Bob, you will be missed forever.
Song

Comment by: Tafari
(Orlando, Florida)
Mon., Jul. 15, 2013 at 10:51 pm UTC
Dr. Robert Frascino is a true hero and will surely be missed by denizens from all corners of the globe.I aspire to even be half as great a man as you were.You are gone but never forgotten!

Comment by: Phil Thompson
(Nova Scotia Canada)
Tue., Jun. 18, 2013 at 11:15 pm UTC
Well, I have had a rough couple weeks. After exploring my sexuality with a man and then fearing the absolute worst after it. I have spent hours going through thebody.com reading Dr. Bobs comments, and for whatever reason every time I read this mans comments, I feel like he is right beside me giving me a hug and telling me it is going to be alright. I hope to come out of this encounter HIV- and after reading Dr. Bobs comments I am confident I will. But I like many others should, will try to contribute to the HIV prevention and cure movement.

Comment by: Phil Thompson
(Nova Scotia Canada)
Tue., Jun. 18, 2013 at 10:22 pm UTC
Well, I have had a rough couple weeks. After exploring my sexuality with a man and then fearing the absolute worst after it. I have spent hours going through thebody.com reading Dr. Bobs comments, and for whatever reason every time I read this mans comments, I feel like he is right beside me giving me a hug and telling me it is going to be alright. I hope to come out of this encounter HIV- and after reading Dr. Bobs comments I am confident I will. But I like many others should, will try to contribute to the HIV prevention and cure movement.

Comment by: AF
(Dammam, Saudi Arabia)
Thu., Jun. 6, 2013 at 8:55 pm UTC
I read the news that Dr. Bob passed away with great shock and left me sad. He had given me enough support during the time I was in trouble

Comment by: K. ming
(Singapore)
Sun., May. 19, 2013 at 11:37 am UTC
I have used your forums when I was understanding sexual risk many years ago. And thanks for ur selfless contribution and patience. You make me, and many other people, a less selfish world. I will try my best to emulate ur virtues onto others to pass on the torches of kindness through eras of humanity.

Comment by: A father
(The Arabian Gulf )
Wed., Apr. 10, 2013 at 12:14 pm UTC
10th April 2013, The man who gave us hope and my family after he passed away !!! ,5 days ago i was sitting on the breakfast table playing scrabble with my daughter , my wife went to see her gynaecology
as we wore experincing our fourth pregnancy week 9 , with one misscarrige in between after two lovely daughters , so number 3 on the way !
the phone rang , with my wife nearly collapse telling me in shattered voice that lab results for blood test done twice came HIV 1 & 2 reactive antibodies reading 2.24 ELISA to make it short we managed a RAPID HIV test and came negative !!
Apparently ELISA test is so sensitive to any up normal antibodies but not antigen , ok as preganant woman immune system changes including TH1 to TH2 shift , plus the factor that she is A- blood and me O + can cause or caused RH factor conflict of blood cells very rare condition but might occur , plus she is above forty with a notch all information i ran through the net for 5 days during the drama , doctors choose to ignore and washed thier hands by labelling her an HIV prone , for me in order to work in this part of the world i need work permit & residency visa which they screen for HIV and bundle of infections diseases each 2 - 3 years before granting which i did mine before hand 3 weeks ago and came negative so HOW COME !!
DR. Frascino posts i went through helped me in understanding what we are going through , with a lot of praying and gods help i managed to stay insane after seeing my family disolve infront of my eyes or living in comotion , Dr.Frascino rest in peace because you gave a man and his family the hope even after your body left our earth and your sole is with our creator, Allah.

Bless any one that reaches out and place a postive comment that would help futuer cases and gives hope , hope in difficult times is like water in a desert , once again bless your sole DR FRASCINO .

Comment by: saved soul
(Mexico)
Wed., Apr. 3, 2013 at 12:45 am UTC
Dr Bob. You helped me in a time where i saw no exit. Your smile, your humour and advice helped me like no one could, and I just dreamed of the day i could meet you and give you the biggest hug.

Thank you Dr Bob. Ill never forget you and what you did for me and so many others. God Bless you my dear Angel, and give Steve and all your loved ones the courage they need to move on

Comment by: saved soul
(Mexico)
Wed., Apr. 3, 2013 at 12:44 am UTC
Dr Bob. You helped me in a time where i saw no exit. Your smile, your humour and advice helped me like no one could, and I just dreamed of the day i could meet you and give you the biggest hug.

Thank you Dr Bob. Ill never forget you and what you did for me and so many others. God Bless you my dear Angel, and give Steve and all your loved ones the courage they need to move on

You helped me find comfort during my darkest hour. The world has lost a geniune hero and warrior in the incessant battle against HIV/AIDs but your legacy will live with us forever. I hope you are now finding your eternal happiness. You truly deserve nothing less!

Comment by: Juan P
(Cathedral City, CA)
Tue., Dec. 25, 2012 at 6:04 am UTC
Dr. Robert Frascino touched so many people affected by the HIV virus. As a gay man who has lost friends to this horrible disease I have to acknowledge Dr. Frascino's contribution to educating people about this disease and improving the lives of those diagnosed with it.

I'm going to miss this wonderful man of the human community. Love you forever, Dr. Bob!

Comment by: Michael
(Canada)
Sun., Dec. 23, 2012 at 10:31 pm UTC
That Dr. Bob was able to touch so many people and warm so many hearts through an online forum surely speaks volumes about his incredible compassion and terrific sense of humour. He will be missed.

Comment by: Steve
(Thailand)
Sat., Dec. 8, 2012 at 1:22 am UTC
Wow, I've just found out the doctor is gone. I used to come to his column just to read and understand more about this whole virus. As I am an HIV negative person, I always followed his recommendations and looked to his responses for insight into how others, especially HIV positive, thought and felt. I am sorry to hear of his passing, he was truly an online source of good information and advice. Sorry that I didn't know him personally.Rest in Peace doctor Bob.

Comment by: Jon
(NYC)
Sat., Dec. 1, 2012 at 9:47 am UTC
I am just reading about this now. What a kind man who really devoted his life and energies to others and made the world a better place for having been here. My deepest sympathies, though belated, to his husband Dr. Steve.

Comment by: AnonymousTue., Nov. 27, 2012 at 1:57 pm UTC
my friend dr.bob you were a great guy. i only wish you knew how much comfort you brought into my life about a month ago , i was going through anxiety and fear but by just reading your responses i felt better and was able to sleep through the night... Its really sad not being able to have this conversation with you, i wanted to thank you .i thought hiv+ people couldnt be so great, kind and caring.. i will donate something to your foundation because you have changed my perspective and encouraged me to live responsibly .you have given alot ,things money cant buy.. Im very sorry to learn about you passing away. and may good take into consideration your good deeds... You will always continue to help through your answers... May God Show His love on your caring Soul

Comment by: Tom
(NY)
Tue., Nov. 27, 2012 at 1:25 am UTC
I can tell Dr. Bob was a larger than life being. I recently had a major scare, and felt at ease when gathering information and commentary provided by him. I could trust him, and his balance between prevention and reality was amazing. I am sad to find this news out as I wanted to thank him, yet obviously he has done his job and then some if someone is here a year later and has been helped beyond hope. Thank You Dr. Bob!

Comment by: Max
(Geneva)
Fri., Nov. 9, 2012 at 8:32 pm UTC
Always enjoyed reading his to-the-point, humorous, and reassuring advice. He helped me through times of severe anxiety. I am very grateful that his advice was there when I needed it (and still is). My heart goes out to his loved ones. May he rest in peace.

Comment by: Daniel
(Colombia)
Tue., Sep. 25, 2012 at 5:33 pm UTC
You're life was full of meaning. You helped -and still do through you're foundation- a lot people! A humanist who practiced medicine, with the hell of a sense of humour. Always in our hearts . You made and still do a lot of positive change to the world. My true condolences to friends and family.

Comment by: jcc
(Mexico City )
Fri., Sep. 21, 2012 at 10:32 am UTC
Dr.Robert Frascino one of the best hiv doctors in the world, he helpe me out tru a false hiv infection, he walked me tru all this procees wich it turn out to be false error.God have him in a very especial place he is my hero and always

Comment by: Kan
(Australia)
Mon., Aug. 27, 2012 at 6:27 am UTC
Tears are not enough to express my sorrows. Dr. Bob, even though I haven't met you in person, your words surprisingly touched every part of my heart. They are funny and warmhearted. All my anxiety about HIV is cleared out everytime when I was reading your answers. After one year busy life not worrying about HIV, yesterday I suddenly wanted to hear from you again to feel your humor and comforting words, but I can't see your picture on the main page then I started to worry. When I finally found this sad and astounding news, I cried just like someone so closed to me has gone. Dr. Bob you will live in my heart forever. Like all people said, I will give you a big hug up there.

Comment by: Tier
(Maryland)
Sat., Jul. 28, 2012 at 11:10 am UTC
Dr.Bob helped so many! The HIV disease has impacted my family and friends. Knowledge is power. He answered countless question and his heart was made specially by God. I truly love Dr. Bob and I will miss you. Regardless of the cause none of us are here forever and when I see his face again I will be sure to give him a big hug and tell him how much he was appreciated although I told him previously. May God bless his family, friends and loved one!My heart is heavy but his legacy will live on.

Comment by: Raj
(India)
Mon., Jul. 23, 2012 at 8:59 am UTC
shocked to read about this.. Doctor, You were an angel who had touched lots of lives..God has asked his son to come back to him to flower good words for him...RIP Dr..Love you Dr Bob!!

Comment by: Angel
(New York)
Fri., Jul. 20, 2012 at 11:36 am UTC
I came to read a post or two after many years and I was caught off gaurd to hear this tragic news. May god have mercy on you Doctor Bob. You will be missed. :'(

Comment by: Mems
(UK, London)
Sun., Jul. 15, 2012 at 8:51 am UTC
So I had this scare 2 months ago now in April 2012 and I was going insane, in my mind I was convinced I had caught HIV. Fortunately for me I found the body via questions I was typing into Google and I read many post from people like me concerned about the risk of exposure and chance of infection. Many of these questions was answered by Dr Bob and I loved reading them because they were honest put things into perspective and were rather humorous something I needed especially in the state I was. I couldn't eat, sleep or work but knowing the information Dr Bob shared with others I for a brief moment was calm. Eventually after experiencing a number of symptoms such as rash, sore throat, joint pain, lethargy I took Dr Bobs advice and went for a full STD screen (he reminded me that symptoms are very unreliable) telling my self whether I am +ve or -ve I will donate to Dr Bobs charity. Although I never posted a message directly on the Q&A forums he helped me so much and now after my test (was -VE) I have revisited the site to donate to his charity....only to my surprise discovered he passed a year ago and this saddens me that a man who helped me so much without knowing it has passed. Yet it shows that even a year later his comments and wisdom will continue to help other for long time. I have kept my promise and will donate £500 to his charity and another £500 to help combat cancer

Comment by: Deps
(California )
Wed., Jul. 25, 2012 at 7:21 pm UTCI can relate to every word you said as I was going through the same thing.
Thank you DR. Bob for everything.

Comment by: s.omar
(london)
Sun., May. 27, 2012 at 11:45 pm UTC
god, my gp and doctor bob got me through my hiv fear related depression a long time ago, he was such an inspiration to me when i thought i should give it all up, i am absolutely devastated to hear about this news.

Comment by: Jagmohan
(India)
Mon., May. 14, 2012 at 5:43 am UTC
Once i put myself in risk and knowing nothing about HIV i was totally mad.Dr.Bob answered my questions and gave me new hope for life.
Thanks a lot Dr.Bob.We missed you.RIP.

Comment by: Mya
(Mobile, AL)
Thu., May. 3, 2012 at 6:20 pm UTC
I remember having him answer a question for me back in 2007. I was so glad to have him respond because out of all the experts he was my favorite. Well like an idiot I put myself at risk once again and rushed onto this site hoping he'd be here to answer a question for me only to find out he's dead. You were a great man and made my situation alot easier to get through (no i'm not HIV+ but for a year I was convinced I was). Thanks for your help. You will be missed. RIP

Comment by: Theodore
(South Africa)
Mon., Apr. 30, 2012 at 3:00 am UTC
Learnt about it a few minutes ago. It's saddening indeed, Dr. Bob, go well, you will be terribly missed. Hope to meet again in the afterlife.. Love you so much RIP. from South Africa and Zimbabwe

Comment by: jon s.
(England)
Sat., Apr. 14, 2012 at 4:25 pm UTC
I may be very late to send this note. Dr Bob was someone who I never met but who touched me with his words and his kindness. He helped others and he helped me. Thank you.

Comment by: Jim
(Palm Springs, CA)
Thu., Apr. 12, 2012 at 6:13 pm UTC
I haven't logged onto The Body.com for quite some time but just did so today after a long absence and discovered the passing of Dr. Bob. I am devastated, to say the least. Although I didn't know him personally, Dr. Bob answered my questions with knowledge, humor, and enthusiasm and made me feel at ease with my diagnosis. I thought of him as a cyber friend I could turn to when I was either confused or concerned and he made me feel better. I am so to hear of his passing and have such sympathy for his partner and the humerous "friends and patients" he helped on this site. What a gift he was to all of us.

Comment by: Fox
(UAE)
Wed., Mar. 28, 2012 at 1:34 pm UTC
R.I.P. Dr. Frascino
I really cannot describe my feelings when i was looking at your name today to see how many WOOO HOOO you are spreading around and i didn't find your innocent smile full of life!!
I am one of the people who is really interesting in understanding your human strategy to help people our as i am trying to play a similar role in the community i am living within.
May god bless you, I do believe you are already blessed as it is rare to find a person who receives thousands of truthful prayers from heart, and you may add one deep honest from my side.

If we will be in heaven, i will certainly look for you to shake your hand!

Comment by: Osman
(Pakistan)
Sun., Mar. 4, 2012 at 1:33 am UTC
As a long time reader of Dr. Frascino, I was shocked and saddened by hearing about his passing. His chipper optimism, sassy honesty, and good humor allayed many fears and disseminated much knowledge about HIV prevention and transmission. One note particularly struck me, by Sérgio Ricardo (Rio, Brazil), who said Dr. Frascino was his hero. I shared the sentiment. Every time he replied to an answer, I felt safe, not from a disease per say, but from the vicissitudes of fate. He was our superhero, we all felt safe, we have lost that feeling now. It has taken me six months to come to terms with this and I can only come to terms with recognizing his passing and what that means. The feeling he elicited in us, in me, cannot be as quickly emulated.

My deepest condolences to his partner and family, both corporeal and cyber.

Comment by: S. Ricardo
((Rio de Janeiro , Brasil))
Wed., Mar. 7, 2012 at 1:29 am UTCHello friend, I just read your comment, and I saw you mentioned my name and I conpartilhar my feelings stay with you. At the moment I most needed a help, Dr Bob assisted me promptly, without asking anything, just trying to help me. A superhero is this, when we need it is there to save us. One day we will find him to thank for everything you did for us. A friendly hug.

Comment by: S. Ricardo
((Rio de Janeiro , Brasil))
Wed., Mar. 7, 2012 at 1:35 am UTCAnd I will continue donating to the foundation every month, and could publish to a site in Brazil, a tribute to him.
http://prazeralexandre.blogspot.com/2011/10/dr-bob-um-ativista-da-vida.html

Comment by: nicki
(ohio)
Wed., Feb. 29, 2012 at 12:32 pm UTC
you will truly be missed by this community and all who were lucky enough to know you on a personal level. RIP Dr. Bob! Thank you for helping us all these years.

Comment by: ibrahim(bobs fan)
(india)
Tue., Feb. 14, 2012 at 2:34 pm UTC
Bob i was thinking about u 2day.i.e14feb i love u from my
btm of my heart.DID SOME ONE IMAGINE WHO MIGHT BE
THE PERSON ON PLANET WHO TURNED HIV HEP WORRIES INTO HAPPINESS BY GUIDING THEM WITH WOOHOOS!!!!?
Absefrequently ROBERT JAMES FRANSCINO(BOB,BOBBY)
BOBS QUALITIES
1)GIVES U A DEFINITIVE AND CONCLUSIVE ANSWER THAT NO OTHER EXPERT OF THIS FORUM GIVES
2)HE IS THE PERSPN WHO HAS FANS IN ALL CONTINENTS
3)I WISH HIM IN THE JANNAT(HEAVEN)
WE WOULD NOT HAV LOST BOB IF HE SUSTAINED A FEW MORE YEARS BCAUSE VACCINE IS ABOUT TO COME I BELIEVE HOPE THIS HELPS ALL POS PUPOLS

Comment by: Diane
(Ventura)
Mon., Feb. 13, 2012 at 9:28 pm UTC
When I was scared and thought every symptom I had was HIV. Dr Bob put some truth into it and made me believe my results. No one else could do that for me, but him....because he was intelligent charismatic and cared for humanity. I know you are in heaven Dr. Bob....because you did so much for us. I am kind of happy I got the scare, just so I could meet someone as beautiful as you. I will always love you even though I never met you. You just helped us. WE ALL LOVE YOU. God bless DR BOB and may his family and husband find peace in knowing he is in heaven.

Comment by: Jay
(Delhi, India)
Sat., Feb. 11, 2012 at 12:02 pm UTC
Just can't believe it. I checked the website just to say hi to Dr.Bob and look what has shocked me !!.
I started believing he is immortal.. I mean the way he used to allay fears and worthless worries with his wit and humor. Dr. Bob has a lot to contribute to the peace I enjoy today. I feel like I have lost a family member very close to me.
I always wanted to meet this Great Man someday but never got a chance. His physical presence might have deserted us but he still lives through his never-dying will to enlighten people with knowledge about hiv and life in general.

I do want to believe there is life after death and would want to meet him once I kick the bucket.

Comment by: Jonas
(Chicago)
Wed., Feb. 1, 2012 at 9:34 am UTC
Such sad news, we will miss this great man. The way he helped others deal with their ignorance, doubt and denial was amazing. I will always be greatful to him and TheBody.com for being there when we needed to hear the truth. RIP Dr.Bob and play a song for the angels.

Comment by: Jonas
(Chicago)
Wed., Feb. 1, 2012 at 9:27 am UTC
Such sad news, we will miss this great man. The way he helped others deal with their ignorance, doubt and denial was amazing. I will always be greatful to him and TheBody.com for being there when we needed to here the truth. RIP Dr.Bob and play a song for the angels.

Comment by: Jill McNamara
(redondo beach, ca)
Wed., Jan. 18, 2012 at 8:51 pm UTC
I have been a fan of bobs for years...years and I am so sad by his passing. I loved everything about this man...his wonderful humor, his great looks! I would have loved to have met him. He was such an amazing man.

Comment by: Marco
(Rome, Italy)
Sun., Jan. 15, 2012 at 7:48 am UTC
I am really saddened by such a great loss. I only hope that Dr. Bob did not suffer very much. For years, I have relied upon his wise suggestions, appreciating his incredible human qualities even though I never had the chance to meet him. No matter what your worrying thoughts were, he would only be there to help you with astonishing precision, never talking about his personal situation. Yes, I wonder why best people have constantly to go away before the others. But what matters most, now, is that Dr. Bob's answers will still be available in the archive, his example will remain for us all, whatever are our duties, political ideas or experiences. As a Christian, I will pray for Dr. Bob's, taking into account that his activity here and as a medician can only be a sign of charity and love for the others. I will miss him so much. Today I came to the site just to ask a question to him, but now it has quite no more importance. Rest in peace, Dr. Bob, and a huge thank you.

Comment by: Harry
(Singapore)
Mon., Jan. 9, 2012 at 12:18 pm UTC
I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn (just now) of the passing of Dr Bob. His advice and answers to many questions helped me out during a very difficult period of my life a few years back. Dr Bob you were an inspiration to many with your devoted work, and may you rest in peace.

Comment by: Markus
(Germany)
Sun., Jan. 8, 2012 at 12:18 pm UTC
I am very sad to learn (only today) that "Dr. Bob" passed away. He was such a great help in very difficult times in my life! I will always remember him as a great person and friend, although I never met him.

Comment by: Roberto
(Italy)
Fri., Jan. 6, 2012 at 1:03 pm UTC
First of all I'm not an English speaker, I'll try to do my best.
5 years ago I discovered this forum because I was looking for some information about hiv trasmission. Here I met Dr. Bob, a brillant doctor with Italian origin (I'm Italian too).
He was great, he helped me with some precious advices and with some precious answers about my questions, and he was right about me, I was HIV negative.
I have been suprised about his professionalism, he was very clever, but also very funny, he used to joke a lot with us, but in particular he was very HUMAN. I've been surprise about his humanity.

Sometimes I used to come here to read the Q&A section, his answers have been very useful to me and I learnt a lot of things about HIV from them. Today, coming here, I discover about his death.

I'm very sad, even if I've never met him. I want to say THANKS DR.BOB, THANKS for your help.

Comment by: John
(Texas)
Tue., Jan. 3, 2012 at 4:08 am UTC
I'm typing this as tears roll down my cheeks. Dr. Bob, you were an inspiration to us all. Your compassion and caring for your fellow human beings shall never be forgotten. Rest in peace.

Comment by: Howard
(New York)
Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 1:58 pm UTC
I'm so sorry to hear about Dr Bob's passing. He was certainly an inspiration in addressing everyone's fears both in his answers and his welcomed sense of humor. He will be missed. God has certainly welcomed you into heaven with open arms. Although you are in a better place all of us left behind will miss you.

Comment by: sultan
(singapore)
Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 10:42 am UTC
RIP Dr Bob.. I remembered you helping me during my HIV fears back in 2004.. I calmed down after reading your replies, got tested and move on with my life.. Just happened to know that you have left us.. RIP my friend and I will always remember you for the help that you have given..

Comment by: sultan
(singapore)
Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 8:57 am UTC
RIP Dr Bob.. I remembered you helping me during my HIV fears back in 2004.. I calmed down after reading your replies, got tested and move on with my life.. Just happened to know that you have left us.. RIP my friend and I will always remember you for the help that you have given..

Comment by: Madan
(DFW,Texas)
Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 1:59 am UTC
I am terribly grieved to know that Dr Bob passed away. He had been a great source of courage and encouragement. Whenever I read his answers in the forum, I felt better. Also he answered questions with empathy. May his soul rest in peace! We miss you Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Mark
(Johannesburg South Africa)
Fri., Dec. 23, 2011 at 6:11 am UTC
I feel like I've lost a close friend. I was totally shocked to recently learn of Dr Bob's passing. Like many, I stumbled across Dr Bob whilst searching in a dazed panic,for some reassuring info that I wasn't infected with this modern plague.

I was instantly comforted by his words and the fact that he genuinely cared. I was amazed that he was able to celebrate someone's negative status despite having HIV himself.

Although I never wrote to Dr Bob, I was comforted and educated through his countless replies of support to many like me. On occasions I felt like a dead man walking and only through Dr Bob was I able to find the courage to face my fears and have a HIV test.

Comment by: Bobby
(Bangalore)
Fri., Dec. 23, 2011 at 1:22 am UTC
Dr Bob will be missed by all. He truly gave hope when one required most. I will miss him a lot and you will always be in my heart and thoughts. Rest In Peace my friend.

Comment by: Paul
(Los Angeles)
Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 5:52 pm UTC
I check up on Dr Bobs blogs every once in a while because I feel like he is an old friend of mine. Along with all the other posters here Dr Bob helped me get through some very challenging emotional times. I am totally blown away by his passing. Honestly, I thought he would physically be with us forever.
He is someone I will always look up to and hold as an example of the kind of person I would like to grow to be someday.
Hugs, tears, and tons of love to Dr. Steve, Dr. Bobs family, and to all of the rest of us to whom Dr Bob was like family. What a great human being!

Comment by: said
(nairobi)
Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 5:36 pm UTC
A tragic loss. very bad news to hear that Dr.bob hass passed away. he alwasy was our guide to learn more about the hiv. i will personally missed a freind who always ready to answer my questions about any aspect of hiv.

Comment by: Daniel
(Guayaquil)
Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 10:47 am UTC
I was just about to ask Doctor Francisno a question, a QTND... I realized he was not the expert who was going to answer the question. When I read he passed away I was shocked and very sad. Inmediatly I erased the question. Somehow Doctor Bob, touched my heart, touched my mind, touched my soul, it was a silly question it was a question in the archives, already answered by him 1000 of times with the same humour, with the same patience.
Doctor Bob was an inspiration to many of us, he was not only an expert, he was a good man. I´m sure God is taking good care of him and he will be a very helpful angel for God and for all of us... Thanks Doctor Bob I will always remember you. Read Doctor Bob last answer it is just great...

Comment by: Walter New York Jack
(New York)
Sat., Dec. 3, 2011 at 12:17 am UTC
i just found about 5 minutes ago that dr bob passed away. tears are rolling down my cheeks. if there is a true hero in my life - he is the one. He personified to me everything what a human being should be. compassionate, caring, giving, loving, honest and everything else which made this man so remarkable. he answered all of my 3 questions over the years and i read many of his answers to other questions and he always responded. he even remembered me by my onscreen name york jack many years after i posted the first question. the world has lost a lot - the best example of what one can accomplish and still enjoy life. he will never ever be forgotten in my heart and i never meet him. he will live on in his literature and the many wonderful moments i had reading his postings. I am soo sad now and have not many words left. to his husband and family my sincerest condolonces. what lucky people you are having known him personally. i am 59 years old now and hope to meet him on the other side in not such a long distance away. my truest hero of all heros.

Comment by: MP
(Michigan)
Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 5:58 pm UTC
When I noticed his photo was missing I was starting to feel sad. I have been visiting this site for years and asked my first question five years ago...and he answered. It was so kind of him to personally sign the Thank You letters he sent his donors, not too many heads of charities do that. I am at a loss of words right now but I just want to say Dr. Bob Thank You for being here for us, you were what a human being should be, a humane being. No matter how tired and exhausted you were, you were always here for us for any reason and we thank you.

Comment by: Tom
(Northern Afghanistan)
Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 12:06 pm UTC
Doc Fransisco was an inspiration and set the standard for compassionate care. Having never had the opportunity to meet this man, I could feel the care in each and every one of his responses. As an aspiring doctor I can only hope that I have half the ability to treat the soul as well as I had seen him do each and every day. Doc you will be missed, but know that while your up there smiling down on us from Heaven the rest of us down here will carry on what you started. God Speed.
Tom Dunkle
Counter Improvised Explosives Device Team

Comment by: MB
(New Orleans)
Tue., Nov. 29, 2011 at 7:27 pm UTC
I came here to check on Dr. Bob and realized with a sinking heart that his picture was no longer part of the advice group. I am so shocked and sorry to hear of the untimely passing of such a generous and courageous man. To reach out and help others when you yourself are dealing with troubles takes a heart of gold. I hope his legacy is preserved and memorialized somewhere significant - a book, a movie, a play. Goodbye Dr. Bob, I know you are smiling as you think about who might play you in a movie!

Comment by: Dave
(US)
Tue., Nov. 29, 2011 at 3:26 am UTC
I am saddened by dr bobs passing, he was a truly gorfted individual who always answered my questions with compassion. I lve in an environment of hustlers and people struggling , attitudes and whatnot and reading his letters and advice took me away from the nonsense I see outside my window. He was the reason I kept fighting after contracting menegitis and aids. I used to be well off both financially and emotionally but the virus has left me living in an environment I remember I worked so hard to get out of. Im sad because this world is not fair and People like Dr Bob always had a positive thing to say, even in his last writing he said he would be taking some time off with humour. This is how he wasm he never let out he was ill or complained and always put others before himself. I ve tried to understand why it is people like him pass and others who do nothing for society remain. It really makes me think Im ready to go myself because with all Ive seen in this world as beautiful as it is, there are so many rotten eggs and so few Dr Bobs that this life is not all it could be. His opinions and advice left a positive mark on so many lives and he will be missed so much. I really hope he is looking down from heaven smiling, knowing that he touched so many lives.

Comment by: Richard
(California )
Sun., Nov. 27, 2011 at 11:01 pm UTC
I just found out about Dr. Bob's passing while surfing this site a few minutes ago. The news comes as a huge shock to me. I am deeply saddened!

Comment by: Kubrik A.
(NYC)
Sat., Nov. 19, 2011 at 11:18 am UTC
I just started reading his comments before stumbling onto the fact of his death. I don't understand why but I couldn't stop crying even though I never met the man. It is just so sad that a man that is so open, helpful, reassuring, witty and unambiguously generous with his time has passed. I hope his family and friends find the strength to remember him in his best moments and to always continue to treasure his eternal presence in their hearts.

Comment by: Tom
(Portland, Maine)
Thu., Nov. 17, 2011 at 2:49 pm UTC
This is my second post about Dr. Bob's passing. I think the first one I was in shock, to say the least. I read hundreds of his responses to, in many cases, very anxious people over the years. He had a rare gift for compassion and human understanding.His wit and "cyber charm" were totally without equal. And I would think, "this is a man who is dealing with HIV himself. He never exhibited a self pity that might have characterized so many others." I am a straight man but I was fascinated by this man who could help so many people feel better about life and living. He was a courageous soul and perhaps one the people I would have liked to meet in person and have a conversation. I will miss him and all that he stood for. Rest in Peace, Dr. Bob because your work lives on,

Comment by: Benjamin
(Boston)
Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 2:05 am UTC
I join the many, many individuals here whose lives were made easier by Dr. Bob's wisdom, kindness, and generous spirit. My condolences are to his family, friends, and the countless individuals, like me, who were the beneficiary of his brilliant outreach.

Comment by: Justin
(ct)
Sat., Nov. 12, 2011 at 10:05 am UTC
I was completely shock and saddened to find out about Dr.Bobs passing. I was diagnosed with HIV in 2009, and a good friend recommend I check out this site. Within the first hour of navigating through TheBody I fell in love with Dr. Bobs post. He seemed to make humor out of every question he answered. He never sugar coated anything and I think thats what people like me living with HIV need. People tend to sugar coat things to make us feel better. But Dr. Bob never did that and still managed to give us comfort and reassurance. Reading his post and asking him questions when I was stressed out always made me feel better and put a smile on my face. Sometimes like this morning, I would go straight to his post just to feel reconnected with others going through what I'm going through. When I didn't see his picture on the site I kind of panicked, thinking to myself "why did he leave TheBody? So I googled his name to find out he had passed. :-( I will truly miss his humor and sarcastic remarks! I'm so honored and grateful he was able to answer every question I have ever asked him even though I'm sure he had 100's of question asked of him each week. Believe it or not he really helped me get through the first few months after being diagnosed. He made me realize that I'm not a freak! Although, I have never met Dr.Bob I truly feel as if I have lost a good friend! My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Steve and your family. To a great man and someone I will always remember. Thank you for all your generous work. My you R.I.P

Comment by: Mike
(England)
Sat., Nov. 12, 2011 at 6:32 am UTC
I'm truely sorry to hear of Dr Bobs passing. His advice and reassurances were incredibly welcome during a period of fear and uncertainty that I (like many others) have been through. He was clearly an amazing person - and I'd like to send my condolences to all who feel this loss, particularly his husband, family and friends.

Comment by: Resident
(CA)
Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 11:29 pm UTC
Dear Dr. Bob,
Today I came to the site to update you on the good news on my post needle stick injury status and to thank you for your thoughtful response and the much needed offer of support. I'm deeply saddened to learn that you are no longer among us and would like to send my condolences to your loved ones.
Thank you for being there for me at a most distressing time. Rest in Peace.

Comment by: Greek Guy
(NL)
Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 3:30 pm UTC
Its not possible to put into words the feeling about a man I had not met, yet I admired so much.
He was a true hero and perhaps the most compassionate man I have come to know.
God rest his soul, his family and close friends must feel proud that have shared their moments with him. Your pain may be eased in the knowledge that it is shared with so many of us, because he was truly our Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Matthew J
(Arcadia, Ca)
Sun., Nov. 6, 2011 at 3:53 pm UTC
My profound sypathies to Dr. Bob's, friends, family and husband. In the 5 years since my diagnosis, I have found the Body in general and Dr. Bob in particular to be an invaluable resource in helping me with information to deal with "the Beast." Dr. Bob answered a few of my questions which helped me in my journey.
He touched many, many lives in a positive way. In my opinion, that made him a great man.

Comment by: Derek Blechinger
(Seattle, WA)
Sat., Nov. 5, 2011 at 1:30 am UTC
For 7 years I worked doing HIV testing in Minneapolis, and I am now going to medical school at University of Washington. Dr. Bob is a man I've admired throughout my career, and the kind of HIV doc I hope to be one day. I've used his words to help give voice to my work for the last 7 years, he will be sorely missed. I hope to continue his legacy of comfort, compassion, humor and positivity in my future practice. Big hugs to Dr. Bob's wonderful husband, Dr. Steve.

Comment by: Jesse
(Dallas, Tx)
Wed., Nov. 2, 2011 at 5:38 pm UTC
I am so depressed to hear this. I dig. in August of 2007 and he helped answer a lot of my worries and questions about being in a HIV-/+ relationship and other questions. I just read this today. I am so sad. He was a great guy and I always looked to him for answers before anyone else. He will be missed.

Comment by: LLC
(Rhode Island)
Tue., Nov. 1, 2011 at 7:08 pm UTC
Dear Dr. Bob,
I'm so sorry to hear you're no longer with us in physical form but I know you're here with us in spirit! You eased my worries and showed great concern for me and countless others on this forum. Thank you!!! I hope you know how special you are and you will forever be in our hearts. Thanks for all you've done. Peace.

Comment by: muk
(Montreal,CAN)
Tue., Nov. 1, 2011 at 4:37 pm UTC
I just found out the news not too long ago., I have not met Dr. Frascino but reading all his posts I just knew he was a kind man who only wanted to help people. They are few people like him and we must be able to look at them and learn from them, be proud of them and accept the past to finally move on but not forget them. Dr Frascino you will not be forgotten

Comment by: AJ
(NEW YORK)
Tue., Nov. 1, 2011 at 1:37 pm UTC
So sad to hear of his passing. He was a truly wonderful,passionate, and heroic human being. He set me straight with my silly OCD questions. May he rest in piece

Comment by: Chris
(Miami, FL)
Sat., Oct. 29, 2011 at 1:19 pm UTC
Dr. Bob - you will be sooo missed. You were an amazing and inspiring human being. Your thoughtfulness, humor, and unwavering comittment to help people get educated about HIV will NOT be forgotten.

Comment by: WorriedWell
(Miami, FL)
Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 10:35 pm UTC
I miss Dr. Bob, loved him even though I never met him in person. Truly saddened by his passing and I cried upon finding out. Sympathy goes out to his family.

Comment by: Santiago
(Mexico City, Mexico)
Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 1:56 pm UTC
I just found out. That's very sad news. I loved his sense of humour and his straightforward and valuable comments in the forums. Rest in peace.

Comment by: Peter Fox
(Washington, DC)
Thu., Oct. 27, 2011 at 1:10 pm UTC
As the Certification Director at AAHIVM for many years, I tip my hat to this tireless and amazing man. Thank you Bob for all you've done -- for ALL of us. The world is a better place for having had a moment of your spirit. We are honored top present a short memorial written by Steve in our upcoming magazine, HIV Specialist. Thank you again and godspeed.

Comment by: Peter Fox
(Washington, DC)
Thu., Oct. 27, 2011 at 12:28 pm UTC
As the Certification Director at AAHIVM for many years, I tip my hat to this tireless and amazing man. Thank you Bob for all you've done -- for ALL of us. The world is a better place for having had a moment of your spirit. We are honored top present a short memorial written by Steve in our upcoming magazine, HIV Specialist. Thank you again and godspeed.

Comment by: Doug Bilyeu
(Wallingford, Pa.)
Sun., Oct. 23, 2011 at 2:28 am UTC
Dear Dr. Steve,
There are many very special human beings in this world of ours and your husband, Dr. Bob was most certainly one of them. May the Lord the giver and taker of life, hold Bob in the palm of his hand and may you always remember the love that the two of you shared for 18 wonderful years, my best to his sister also.

Comment by: xobninbox
(Asia)
Sat., Oct. 22, 2011 at 2:30 pm UTC
Very stunned and sad to stumble on this peice of news! I was shocked to read this and still do not believe this happened. Dr. Bob was truly altruism personified for humanity - served the population, contributed to research and gave his life up to HIV - all due to an industrial accident for no fault of his. A man that I will always remember forever in my life who helped me deal with my fears in his typically humorous style.

Miss you and god bless your soul - cannot imagine that I am writing this for Dr.Bob, just cannot believe this has happened ..

Comment by: cinzia
(ireland)
Sat., Oct. 22, 2011 at 9:18 am UTC
Dr. Bob and I exchanged some emails on his forum. He always with flourish, style, warmth elegance, positivity, and humour. I am going to frame his answers to me. They were so memorable. He alway had a funny joke, and made me laugh, in the depths of dispair. As well as being gifted in his various fields, he was a gifted writer, and comic. I could feel his warmth, his good vibes, vitality, his amazing positivity, leaping out at me, off the computer screen. He gave me hope, in a time of deep despair. He was a monolith, a beacon of hope, for so many. I am deeply saddened by his passing. And sorry, that I never had the opportunity to meet him in person. Because there is no doubt in my mind, that he was a most unique individual, who will be missed by all of those lucky enough to have know, and loved him, and also by those of us who were not so lucky. He was a Burning Bush, a Heart of Gold, a total Sweety Pie, who gave so much. Eternal Hugs, and Love to you, Dr. Bobbino, in every language under the sun. XXX.

Comment by: Michael
(Montville, Ohio)
Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 11:35 pm UTC
Breaks my heart to hear this news. He was an inspiration to so many. Even though he faced his own struggles with this terrible disease, he was always there to comfort others and always preached honesty and prevention. God bless you Dr. and stay well in Gods embrace.

Comment by: Katie
(New York)
Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 2:49 pm UTC
To Sarah and Andy- Nice come backs! I was home already, so that was a real shot below the belt! How could I ever come back against that? And it hurt my feelings, whaaaah. LOL!

I have more of a right to comment here than you. I've actually paid respects here and I know I'm not alone when I say I feel all of these negative and selfish comments are abhorrent, I had to stand up to this inappropriate negativity. Dr. Bob was an asset to the HIV prevention community and a great loss to many, despite his unconventional replies. Haters, Go Home!

To everyone- I'm just trying to make people see this is a forum for rememberance, not complaining!! It's not like rude, whiny comments will change anything. He's gone, just keep them to yourself. It's true that miserable people will always be miserable and want to make everyone miserable with them.

[Moderator's note: This is going to have to be the final word on this particular back-and-forth; it's getting precariously close to a flame war on both sides, which not only is against our comment policy, but is completely inappropriate for a memorial page like this.]

Comment by: E
(S)
Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 12:31 pm UTC
I am shocked to hear about his passing. Dr. Bob helped me out when I was so worried. And he helped so many people and was so tireless about it. May he rest in peace.

Comment by: Javier Burgos
(nyc)
Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 8:48 pm UTC
First i would like to send my condolences to the family and friends of DR.Bob.He was a wonderful human being.I have been following Dr bob on this site for about 5 years.It all started with a fear that contracted Hiv from a one night stand i had with this woman.Well the thing is i suffer from OCDand it was a nightmare for me.I was sure i had HIV and could not sleep or work.It got so bad that i had to seek treatment.It got to the point i couldn't have sex anymore.Even if i went to doctors,i would think the needles they used on me where contaminated with hiv.I would go to massage parlors and get a massage with the happy ending,and think right away that i contracted hiv.This fear of HIV ruined my life and now i am much betterbut still get fearful sometimes.I take meds for my OCD.Well Dr bob's posts and answers are what literally kept me sane.His insight,humor and good spirit helped me when i was down and scared.
He was one of the greatest people to ever grace this planet.Dr bob helped thousands of people,probally millions,with his advice to help them through there situations.I wish he was still alive.God bless you Dr.Bob.You will be forever missed. Javier from NYC

Comment by: Hayati
(Cologne, Germany)
Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 4:01 am UTC
What a shock to read this terrible news, already the weather here is not sunny, but grey and filled with rain. I am truely sad! As a dedicated reader of your information page I always felt that you people are like stars on the sky, not always visible but always there. One great star has now vanished and I overwhelmed by this great loss.

Comment by: Theresa
(Fort Lauderdale)
Tue., Oct. 18, 2011 at 3:57 pm UTC
So sad to learn of Dr. Bob's passing. He answered an irrational question of mine but calmed my fears. I know some of you think some questions in the forum are silly. I agree. But when you are really scared and you have OCD you can take a situation with no risk and scare the crap out of yourself. Myself as a good example. I think Dr. Bob really kept things real and he was a great educator for HIV/AIDS. I am glad he answered the stupid questions cause there are a lot of people out there that really believe they can get infected by casual contact, docs, cats, and whatever else out there. There is so much mis-information with regards to HIV/AIDs and there is a long way to go. I think Dr. Bob's mission was to educate people and stop the spread of HIV/AIDs and help those with real risks and those who have OCD and were trapped in worried well hell. And his sense of humor was one of a kind. I just loved his witty ways. He surely was an intelligent man and could say anything with a twist to make it comical. I will miss seeing him on here. I hope he is resting in peace and having a nice Cappucino in heaven. God Bless you Sweet Angel Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Andy
(Indianapolis, IN)
Tue., Oct. 18, 2011 at 8:49 am UTC
To call someone with OCD names is abhorrent. People with OCD have problems. People that have OCD often can't control the problem. My son has OCD was so upset to be called a nut. I don't know, but I didn't like this site.

Comment by: Katie
(New York)
Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 2:53 pm UTCThen don't go on this site!!! Get your son some treatment. That's what he needs rather wasting his and other profesionals'time with questions that make no sense(obviously, or it would have been answered without sarcasm).
(True) OCD is treatable, everyone! I don't understand why people don't take care of their mental illnesses. But when someone makes light of endless ignorant questions(a little education goes a long way), everyone has a fit about insensitivity. All you haters- go elsewhere, your comments are unwanted and most of us don't care how you were hurt. Dr. Bob has helped far more people than any of us could ever imagine.

This forum is to pay respects- NOT TO BE RUDE BEHIND THE PROTECTION OF YOUR COMPUTER SCREEN!

Comment by: Andy
(Indianapolis, IN)
Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 8:28 am UTCWell, ma'am, that's exactly why I didn't go back onto this site for advice! and if soemone had a son or daughter with autism, how would they feel if he or she was called 'stupid' for something he/she can't control? OCD is the same way, even with meds soemtimes. And, yes, I would tell this to anyone to their face. And, on this site, MANY stupid questions were answered, whether the writer had OCD or not. Go home.

Comment by: Edward
(Dallas, TX)
Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 4:19 pm UTC
I thought the questions he continually answered were so outlandish that I bet people can say that people are officially dumber now for having had to read that. I didn't think mine were that stupid, but mine always got thrown out. I hope the next person that answers questions doesn't call people flutter nutters or ignore the questions. I understand that there is a large volume of questions, but still...

Comment by: Mitch Tue., Oct. 18, 2011 at 1:51 am UTCReally, if you found his style so offensive, why didn't you just go to another website? Better yet, create your own! I envision a pay site where you could employ bored ID docs to display a more appropriate level of empathy for questions like "can I get AIDS from my promiscuous iguana".

Comment by: Ohwell
(USA)
Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 at 6:39 pm UTC
We were all born to die. Peace be with him. I personally did not agree with how negative he was about a cure being found. I guess all his negativity finally caught up with him. Let this be a lesson to the remaining doctors destroying patients hope for a cure. Just because you cannot and will not imagine a cure soon does not mean that a cure will not be found very very soon. It amazes me how negative the doctor's comments about a cure are on this site. Its always something negative and never anything positive. Is there that much resentment with the progress that has been made even if the doctors on here did not discover it. Guess there is jealousy even in the physicians minds these days. if they dont come up with the cure they marginalize anyone else's discoveries by saying negative comments about them.

Comment by: AnonymousMon., Oct. 17, 2011 at 3:52 pm UTCThis is a ridiculous comment. Are you insinuating that the doctors on the body should be give people false "hope". That sounds a little bit worse then Dr. Bob constantly giving reassurance to people with OCD (hopefully like myself)? What lesson should they learn? Don't ever ever die? He didn't even die from an HIV related illness.

Comment by: Robert
(NY NY)
Fri., Oct. 14, 2011 at 1:37 am UTC
I've been reading Dr. Bob's posts intermittently over the years...I'm not going to heap praise on him because I was turned off frequently by the caliber of questions to which he responded...i.e. I sat on a toilet seat that was once used by a FTM sex worker with aids...I covered the seat with a disposable toilet cover...should I get tested?...OK, I made that one up, but many have been that ridiculous! But, I still came back now and then, and always liked seeing his picture and wondering what kind of dumb question he was answering. Please, don't get me wrong...I am also deeply saddened by his passing. It's never comforting to hear that one of our own succumbed to aids while in the prime of his life. And, now that I'm almost 52, 59 sounds pretty damn young to be dying these days!
But, the reason I am writing this, is so that none of us, for even a second, views this as a failure in the fight against aids. Dr. Bob was both at and in the forefront of that fight, and I think he would agree with me that the progress made against aids is staggering. I started AZT in 1988, 3 years after testing positive. I was 28 and never in a million years thought I'd be writing this so many years later. All of us long term survivors are proof that medical miracles happen every day. Many people (my father and my 49 y/o cousin come to mind) die before their "time", so lets not mourn both Dr. Bob's passing AND the failure hiv drugs to save him. By all measures he had a long, loving and fruitful life, and touched millions of lives with his writing and his own life experience with aids. May he rest in peace, and may the rest of us, just breathe...and relish the moment we are in right now.

Comment by: RegretidiotzFri., Oct. 14, 2011 at 12:39 am UTC
Oh no. I was so helpless about 5 yrs ago and Dr Bob was literally my only pillar to lean on. I come back to The Body site occasionally just to see how he has been. I am shocked to learn of his passing. I am very very sad. Dr Bob, RIP. You are a truelly selfless and wonderful person. I will miss you.

Comment by: GaryTue., Oct. 11, 2011 at 8:31 pm UTC
I was scared, one hundred, no one thousand times or more, but then I found this site and most importantly Dr Bob and my fears were calmed by his answers, his humor and his zest for life. Having OCD means I came to visit ths site often, and searched for answers to mindless questions, making stuff up in my head, but again being calmed by his answers in the archives. I even asked questions that had probably been asked and answered hundreds of times before, but he answered them, once again just for me.....and a million other people. Dr. Bob you helped me over come my fears (at leaset for the most part, or I wouldn't be here again), and I can not tell you what it meant having you to "talk" to.
I am truly shocked by your passing and will always remember you as the incredible man that you were.
My thoughts and prayers to Dr. Steve and all of your families.
THANK YOU!

Comment by: Vinod
(Dubai)
Tue., Oct. 11, 2011 at 8:01 pm UTC
After years I just check the Body.com to read Dr.Bob and unfortunately he is no more.He have been a great source for me to get my misconsemptions on HIV and AIDS.Reading him educated me and I had made atleast some more people understand how HIV spread and why not to shy away from HIV infected peiople. Dr,BOB my salute to you and peace on ur eternal life.

Comment by: eduardo
(madrid, Spain)
Tue., Oct. 11, 2011 at 7:43 pm UTC
We have lost a great man...a good man and a good doctor...and Heaven has a new Angel. Perhaps, if we look at the sky...we will find a new star brighting for us....that star is Bob. A kiss and a hug, Bob, wherever you are.

Comment by: CJ
(Maryland, USA)
Tue., Oct. 11, 2011 at 6:10 pm UTC
Dr. Bob, I was lost and afraid and by chance I found you on this site. You saved my spirit and most likely my life. I barely new you before a few months ago and now I will miss you more than most people I know in real life. I will continue support your efforts and do my part to see that your goals fulfilled.
Rest in peace

Comment by: Worried Guy
(Canada)
Mon., Oct. 10, 2011 at 2:45 am UTC
Dr. Bob was a really caring and wonderful person who helped many people around the world. His loss is such a big loss. I will never forget him and he is so inspiring to me.

Comment by: Rob
(Canada)
Sun., Oct. 9, 2011 at 10:53 pm UTC
I placed his picture in a frame and hang it where I can see him often and remember, gratefully, how he helped me during the most difficult days of my life. I miss him greatly.

Comment by: Juliano
(São Paulo, Brasil)
Sat., Oct. 8, 2011 at 6:59 pm UTC
What to say? What about you dear Doctor Bob. I'll never be good with words as ever. Simply not having a heart like yours. Heart that the world is lacking. Be at peace. You never died.
To remind you of a Jewish saying: Whoever saves one life saves the world.
Bob, you saved my life. Very, very, very much.
Always keep on praying for you.

Comment by: Marc
(Washington DC)
Thu., Oct. 6, 2011 at 1:09 pm UTC
Dr. Bob, words cannot describe the volume of sadness that hit me when I found out. You are a superior human being that gave trememdous amount of hope and joy to many worried-wells (your favorite phrase) all over the world. You'll be missed by all of us. Rest in peace my dear friend.

Comment by: Katie Rubin
(NYC)
Thu., Oct. 6, 2011 at 11:06 am UTC
I am at a loss for words upon finding out that the world lost such an amazing human being. Rest peacefully, Dr. Bob. Thank you for making me laugh and easing my fears in one of my darkest hours. I will play clair de lune for you today and remember how wonderfully you played it. I wish we could have met. I planned on going to Los Altos one day to meet you. R.I.P.

Comment by: Georges
(Belgium)
Thu., Oct. 6, 2011 at 9:48 am UTC
Adio my good friend, for the last 5 years I was reading your answers and I cannot hide that your enthousiasm and the sense of humor was so inspiring to me.

Comment by: AnonymousThu., Oct. 6, 2011 at 3:06 am UTC
Dr. Bob, I'm going to try to live every day of my life with your attitude. You are and will always be a role model and an inspiration. People don't get much better than you. I hope that, wherever you are, nothing but wonderful things come to you forever.

Comment by: NigerianStudent
(New York)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 7:10 pm UTC
Dr. Bob helped me at a very dark time in my life and I always meant to write him to tell him how much his responses to people was like a therapy for me in getting over my fear of HIV. I am literally in tears writing this note. Dr. Bob, wherever you are, you were a blessing in disguise to strangers and only God knows how many a suicides you prevented from happening. I am so sad and I will definitely miss looking forward to his emails every day at 1pm. RIP :'(

Comment by: Kai
(Hawaii)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 5:47 pm UTC
Dr. Bob was very helpful & kind to me when he answered my many questions about Sculptra injections. He was quick with his email responses and always straight-forward and to the point with his advice. I admire his great knowledge of HIV and his desire to help those in need. He devoted his entire career to helping HIV patients, and we should all be very appreciative and thankful for his good deeds. I'm also a musician, and I have great respect for Dr. Bob's talent as a classical pianist. I've always heard that earning a piano performance degree was more difficult than medical school. Dr. Bob worked his way through both fields and I applaud his achievements. He shared his gifts, talents, and great knowledge to help others. We should all dig deep in our pockets to support The Robert James Franscino AIDS Foundation. Even if you can only afford a few bucks, I'm sure that it will be greatly appreciated.

Comment by: Ina
(San Francisco)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 4:05 pm UTC
Such an intelligent and thoughtful person, such a great doctor. I will miss his writing and his role-modeling for everyone who has and/or works with HIV positive patients. My deepest sympathies to his loved ones.

Comment by: Ricardo
(Madrid, Spain)
Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 8:54 am UTCAt a time when it was difficult to laugh, Dr. Frascino got tears in my eyes with his wonderful sense of humor, now my tears are of a different kind. "Strange but true" became soon my first read in the Thebody's bulletins, and also every place where Frascino's inspirational vision were present. We have the choice of living intensely every day and don't give up our dreams, as he always insisted.

Comment by: Ed
(Omaha, NE)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 2:56 pm UTC
Look elsewhere for answers, everyone. No one here is going to answer anything anymore. He was the only one that did.

Comment by: Maria
(Milano, Italia.)
Fri., Oct. 7, 2011 at 8:23 am UTCI hear your great sadness, Ed. But the other Experts at The Body will continue to give you and me and everyone valuable answers. Their answers may not be as amusing and extended as Dr. Bob's, but they will be helpful nevertheless. And, who knows, perhaps the extraordinary outpouring of grief for Dr. Bob's passing from people all over the world, will cause some of the Body's Experts to take a little more trouble in future to identify with people in the way that Dr. Bob did. So, Ed, come on, let's be optimistic.

Comment by: Ohwell
(USA)
Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 at 6:43 pm UTCEd is right. These doctors on here dont know everything. If anything I think they are jealous if there are advances made in finding a cure that was not discovered by them. Thats so sad that they have to be negative instead of optimistic. Find other more encouraging and optimistic sites, they are out there. But stay far away from this one unless you want to be brainwashed into thinking there will never be a cure for HIV.

Comment by: Bri
(NYC)
Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 9:38 pm UTCIt's heartbreaking to lose Dr. Bob's witty, humorous, and fact-rich responses, but that's not a reason to insult his equally knowledgeable colleagues. Not everyone responds to questions with Dr. Bob's personality, but the factual information provided by all the experts is entirely consistent with with current research (and with what Dr. Bob said, too). Not one other doctor on The Body has ever made the ridiculous claim that there will never be a cure from HIV. Ohwell, please don't use this page meant to honor Dr. Bob's memory as a platform for throwing unfounded insults at other doctors who have dedicated their lives to the same cause.

Comment by: Anne
(Chicago, IL)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 2:52 pm UTC
This is a shame. It really is. Whether his work was liked or not (I see mixed reviews) it's still a shame.

Comment by: job
(kuwait)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 4:48 am UTC
my dear bob. you are great. you had given your helping hand to everybody. i am a knowledge seeker. i got more and more knowledge from you. it is a big loss of this world. iam 100% sure. you soul is now with our GOD in heaven.

Comment by: steve
(Lagos, Nigeria)
Tue., Oct. 4, 2011 at 11:45 am UTC
I am sad u left so soon. Who will continue to say " I am here if you need me" to so many of us again. May your soul rest in perfect peace.

Comment by: Brian
(DC)
Fri., Oct. 7, 2011 at 6:38 am UTCDear Steve, the answer to your question is simple. It is all of us who will now say "I am here if you need me." That is, and will always be Dr. Bob's legacy. He may have left us in body, but the number of responses on here is a testament to the strength of his spirit that remains.

Comment by: sal
(los angeles, ca)
Tue., Oct. 4, 2011 at 1:28 am UTC
Dr. Bob was truly a caring and very up to date on all hiv related issues and helped me and thousands of others understand and have hope for a better life with hiv. he will be missed beond words and may he have a place somewhere very peaceful that he deserves.

Comment by: Greg Rountree
(Corydon, In.)
Mon., Oct. 3, 2011 at 12:03 pm UTC
With the Deepest of Regrets and the most Sincere concerns for Dr. Bob and all of those fortunate enough to be close to him. A Man of his Magnitude touched so many more than family and close friends--he reached out and Touched the World.... oh how he will be missed!...Deepest Sympathy....Greg

Comment by: ss
(NJ)
Mon., Oct. 3, 2011 at 12:00 pm UTC
I am in deep shock right now. But just holding on to smiling face image of dr. Bob who help lot of folks like me to feel better and view things in right way.

Comment by: RK
(Delhi)
Mon., Oct. 3, 2011 at 7:38 am UTC
Dr. Bob,
You enlightened the most of the hypochondriacs, OCD people and anxiety prone. You were source of knowledge.Your posts helped me a lot to have grip on my irrational fears. While i currently have one more OCD attack of catching HIV through hand job by a massage. Your posts on this topic work more than any medicines.

You would be missed a lot by people like me.. God bless your soul (RIP)

Comment by: Emil (The man)
(Dubai, UAE)
Mon., Oct. 3, 2011 at 12:05 am UTC
I am no HIV+ person, but in order to increase my knowledge of what HIV meant to a non-HIVpositive persons, I found TheBody.com in 2001.

Ever since, I enjoyed each mailing in full, sharing it with others as necessary and the words of Dr Bob have a been great source of inspiration.

Death, the inevitable, however laid its icy hands on this noble educator.

Comment by: Anita
(Miami, FL)
Sun., Oct. 2, 2011 at 4:40 pm UTC
Poor thing. The other sad thing is that there will never be another forum like this again. The other people likely won't take over. At least he answered some of the questions.

Comment by: Anonymous
(Earth)
Sun., Oct. 2, 2011 at 1:20 am UTC
I've just seen the news. Why, why, why on Earth would we lose Dr. Bob? The world is full of countless malicious, destructive, and evil people. How is it that, in the face of such people, humanity can instead lose the strength, wisdom and unflagging optimism of Dr. Bob?

Whatever mechanism it is that instills order in this universe is obviously malfunctioning horribly. This is so much more than unfortunate and devastating. It's a downright blow to the well-being of humanity. Someone tell me that this is just a bad dream, that I'll wake up shortly and see a new round of Dr. Bob's delightful responses in the forums, or a new blog, or anything. This can't be real.

It will take effort on the part of thousands (millions?) to fill the void that Dr. Bob has left in the struggle against HIV, but for him and for ourselves, we can and will do it. That said, nothing can diminish the imprints he's left on our hearts, and the effects he's had directly on people's lives will likely live on for at least a century. Some of his forum posters are pretty young!

Dr. Bob, you changed my life forever, and I'm eternally grateful to you. Thoughts and condolences to Dr. Steve and your family during this impossibly difficult time. Be strong, all of you!

Comment by: R
(New York)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 7:08 pm UTC
You know, every time I come to this website and see Dr. Bob's face on the homepage I pray that I find out that I misread the text earlier.....my stomach becomes knots everytime I must see its real........I miss you Dr Bob.....RIP :(

Comment by: Paolo
(Milan, Italy)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 1:35 pm UTC
He was so light and so deep as the music he loved and played. He has given deep love to everybody who has been in contact with him, just reading his posts. I'll never forget him, and i'll keep him in my heart with gratitude.

Comment by: Pissarro
(New York)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 1:10 pm UTC
With uncontrollable sorrow I can't believe I'm typing this final message to Dr. Bob. You have helped me so many times in recent years. I only found out about your today while picking up an older copy of the NYtimes for a photo shoot. As i leafed through the pages I for some reason stopped in the obituary section and saw your photo. You will be missed terribly. Thank you for all the laughs, funny terms and the education that you have left me and everyone else with. I sincerely appreciated. I Love you.

Comment by: sergio
(brazil)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 7:39 am UTC
Absolutely shocked. Since I learned to be positive in 2004 I have been following The Body. I certainly read messages from all specialists but I was particularly fond of Dr. Bob`s answers, not only for the accuracy of the statements but mainly for the sense of humor. Reading Dr. Bob`s answers in THE BODY was my number one cheer up when I was down with concerns about HIV. A big loss to all of us. A big question mark regarding where the positive status will take us all.

Comment by: Suresh
(Sohar, Oman)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 5:55 am UTC
It is really shocking to hear that Dr. Bob is not in our midst. A great soul. I did not receive automated mail updates from his forum. Was under the impression he is touring. But never thought he in on a tour never to return. RIP.

Comment by: Bri
(NYC)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 12:33 am UTC
Not Dr. Bob ... I'm numb. Psychologists and psychotherapy couldn't help me get over my ridiculous AIDS phobia, but Dr. Bob did! And this is to say nothing of all the time, dedication, and help he's given to people who truly needed it. What an incredible human being. I've seldom encountered people with his intelligence and wit. The fight against HIV will continue, but it's a dark hour in which we need to go on without him. Rest easy, Dr. Bob.

Comment by: David
(Los Angeles, CA)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 11:09 pm UTC
I'm crushed. Dr Bob gave me a personal WOO HOO after a negative test result. He gave so much and comforted so many whom he never met personally.

Comment by: Bob
(Denver Colo)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 3:48 pm UTC
When I was diagnosed with HIV, in 2008, I was in shock, denial and had a very hard time coming to grips with it. I had so many questions that I could not find answers for, but then I found Dr Bob on line. I read through his answers all the time, also for other questions that come up along the way. He relieved many of my fears. He leave a very large void in the HIV AIDS community, he help so many people, around the world, to cope with, getting on with their life. A one of a kind, who gave a great service to so many people. A true light in the darkness. Thank you,
Dr Bob, I hope you realized, along the way that you were a beacon of light and hope for so many of
us. My prayers are with his partner, family and friends. Rest in peace, Dr Bob....rest in peace.

Comment by: Mark Bohrer
(Saratoga, CCA)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 2:39 pm UTC
I was one of Dr. Frascino's allergy patients at Sunnyvale Medical Clinic in the late 19880s and early 1990s. I always enjoyed talking with him about playing the classical piano repertoire when I'd see him for allergy ssues. I remember one conversation where I said Chopin etudes I used to play were a bit beyond me now, to which he replied with a smile, "Well, maybe it's time to do some of the [easier] mazurkas instead!"

Comment by: Adolfo
(San Francisco, CA)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 2:28 pm UTC
I'm really going to miss Dr. Bo's wit and sense of humor. No matter how serious or weird the question was, he always found a way to put a smile in his reader's faces. He will me missed. A lot.

Comment by: Sam
(Canada)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 2:21 pm UTC
Dr.Bob was the light in a time of darkness. We never met but I feel like knowing him. His passing comes as a shock to me. There aren't too many people in the world like him.
R.I.P.
:(

Comment by: Gregory
(Riverside County)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 1:03 pm UTC
To Dr. Bob, husband, family, and friends,
Dr. Bob has made a deep lasting impression with me, his knowledge of HIV/AIDS has impressed me. As a long time survivor of HIV/AIDS I have often felt afraid, and worried. There are countless times that I have come to The Body site looking for comfort and have found it in the posts of Dr. Bob. Funny, we never met, but I felt he understood...and I know that he did understand. I want to acknowledge that everyone that has been involved in bringing "The Body" to life is a gift sent from GOD and my heart is full. But there is always that one darling person that you meet at a party, and instantly feel connected. Dr. Bob, your physical presence is missed, but your love and concern for humanity will always be with us. GOD is, I am sure, pleased with you.
Gregory (a fan)

Comment by: Prudence
(Nairobi, Kenya)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 8:59 am UTC
I am still in shock, Dr. Bob was my source of courage when i was trying to conceive. We shall truly miss him. May God bless each of us.

Comment by: Tariro
(Harare,Zimbabwe)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 2:36 am UTC
I am deeply saddened by the news.At the same time I wish if each and every one of us affected in one or way or the other would commit ourselves to serving other people as Dr Bob was,living with this deadly disease would be more manageable.RIP Dr Bob.Your contribution will see many a long way.

Comment by: Ted
(Louisville)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 1:04 am UTC
I've read the comments from a few who believed Dr. Bob could be insensitive and rude to people with OCD. I would ask that you read his response to a question I asked him a while back about the kinds of questions he gets. He goes out of his way to point out that many people are truly filled with anxiety and lacking education about HIV.

I think he gave tremendous forebearance to people and took the time to answer their questions no matter how silly they seemed to others. He knew who was writing in again and again, but he would still respond to them. I do think some need to be shaken sometimes or we do enable people. I needed to be shaken--not about HIV transmission risks, but worrying about get sick with this or that after I was diagnosed. Being rude would be dismissing their questions/concerns altogether and refusing to answer them at all. I think he was a saint for answering all those 30,000 questions. We've probably all met rude and mean docs. Dr. Bob certainly does not fit that description. If fluffer-nutters was the worse thing he said after thousands of "Can I get HIV from a fart?" questions, then he should have won the nicest person in the world award. And, as you will read, he understood and was sympathetic to how many may think you could get HIV from a fart.

Comment by: Ali
(Kuwait)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 7:49 am UTCYes, you are right, Ted. And for this humorous directness, we all loved Dr. Bob. The number of messages here shows how much.

Comment by: Anica
(rural Africa)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 11:12 pm UTC
I can't tell you what a lifeline Dr. Bob's writings were to someone who lives far away from advanced health care sources and support communities. As part of a magnetic family myself, I was especially encouraged by his discussions of his ongoing, loving relationship and my heart goes out to his family. He really made a difference in my life. I am so saddened by his passing.

Comment by: André Félix–Díaz Rojo
(Mexico City)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 7:43 pm UTC
I'm sorry to read about this. Dr. Bob was there when I needed some advice. I feel like it's my loss. It is my loss. He is such a great person. Thank you, Dr. Bob. You live in my mind. I can tell you that.

Comment by: E Diaz
(Miami)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 7:25 pm UTC
I love you Dr Bob and will miss. You really deserve to live the day the cure comes to us. I will miss your homour, your quality as human being,the way you see life and all the help your gave us.
G.d bless you and give confort to your husband and family.

Comment by: eric
(earth)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 5:12 pm UTC
When I saw Dr Bob's smiling face on the front page of the thebody, I simply assumed he had posted another inspirationnal post that I would get to during the week end.

The content was a shocker.

I had read a lot of his post and, with the magic ot the internet, many people will still do so.

Living with HIV can be challenging

Living with HIV AND Dr Bob made things easier.

On the positive side, we still live with HIv and we still live with Dr Bob (in our heart!)

Comment by: Fabio
(Dubai)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 4:14 pm UTC
Am certain, he is somewhere up there with the angels. His time came up, God wanted him up there. Human beings will miss his service and his sense of humour, but perhaps he will continue to help a lot more by sending guardian angels to us from heaven.
He will be missed. If it wasn't of his comments and assurance, I would have been in a mental hospital. Our prayers go out to his family and his long time partner.

Comment by: kevin
(prescott arizona)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 3:48 pm UTC
when i found out i was hiv positive at 62 yrs old i was in shock. i thought it was the end of my life. i was depressed for weeks. i had no knowledge of the virus nor did i want to know anything. i was told about this site(thebody) and i wrote in to ska questions. one of the first answears i recieved was from DR. Bob , he put humor back into my life as i read his response to my questions. he was the one man i know that put LIFE back into my LIFE. i never have passed up ny of his comments. i will MISS all the laughter. thank you dr bob

Comment by: Chris W.
(NY, NY)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 2:08 pm UTC
I am so sorry to hear this about the good Doctor. He was an extraordinary life force. I visited his section of this site so frequently that I could almost predict his answer to any question given to him. I am no spring chicken, but I learned, from reading years and years of his answers, how to negotiate sex in a big, rough and tumble city like NY. He taught me how to protect myself and he taught me that I am responsible for my own well-being, not my sex partner. He is gone, but he will never be forgotten. I know we are not supposed to be sad because Dr. Bob lived such an extraordinary life, but my heart is a bit weak today.

Comment by: An admirer
(New York)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 1:29 pm UTC
I was so shocked to hear the news. He was always there for me. I asked multiple questions and he always answered with a warm, caring answer. Doc got me through a dark period. For that I will always admirer him for what he was....An Angel on Earth!!! Rest in Peace Doc...we love you!!!!

Comment by: Liz
(Tuscon, AZ)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 9:29 am UTC
I feel sorry for the man. Granted, I thought my question was a little more 'realistic' then people who thought they got AIDS from looking up at the sky, and he didn't answer it, but I still feel sorry for the guy. It's a terrible thing to have happen. I can't understnd why there's no cure for this yet, but it is what it is.

Comment by: Ed
(Cleveland, OH)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 9:25 am UTC
All he did was call people with OCD and people who were afraid names. That's what I noticed when I read many posts. OCD is a disorder. People can't help it. So, to be called a flutter whatever it was, I mean, yeah..that's pretty bad. Just saying.

Comment by: Andy
(Cleveland, oh (edgewater))
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 4:12 am UTCEd, he did much more than call hypochondriacs "fluffer nutters", he was a source of knowledge to tens of thousands-possibly millions-who weren't linked in to formal HIV education. He was a living symbol of what someone with HIV could accomplish for those of us who don't live in a bubble populated by a cast of poz characters. He was an educated voice of moderate, believable optimism in a discourse dominated by extremes of doom and euphoria, and a sexual realist who neither chastised people for being human nor offered HIV infection as an excuse to further compromise one's health. This is the first passing of another poz person that has really affected me. Please try to be respectful of what he did, even if you can't empathize with his exasperation at the selfish hypochondriacs who frequent this site.

Comment by: Katie
(New York)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 2:30 pm UTCThe majority of people with OCD who were writing in to Dr. BOB were NOT being treated my a professional counselor or psychiatrist. If you weren't getting medical attention for an illness and blamed that illness on impractical and irrational situations while refusing proper treatment, people may call you crazy. I think "fluffernutter" was making light of the sad situation. I can think of many other names to call someone who desperatley needs psychiatric attention, and isn't getting any- but thinks they could get HIV from silly situations and THAT is their "true" problem.

Comment by: Bri
(NYC)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 12:49 am UTCBeing called a "flutter whatever it was" (i.e. a fluffernutter, among other things) is exactly what people with OCD need to hear. I am one of those OCD-afflicted people to whom he so kindly responded--twice! Reassurance that our fears are unreal is important, because our condition is curable, a product of our own minds, and it pales in comparison to real problems like HIV. I'm a little crazy and I know it, but Dr. Bob's humor and amusing nicknames will always remain in my mind so I can remind myself to calm down. I hope he knows how much he did not only for those with HIV, but for those with psychiatric problems related to it. He's helped all of us in so many ways, and his humor was one of the most fantastic things about him. I'll be thanking him for calling me a fluffernutter for the rest of my life.

Comment by: nothani
(bulawayo zimbabwe)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 6:27 am UTC
It really pains me as an HIV positive pole in a magnetic couple to learn of Dr Bobs' death, in actual fact i'm crippled because he was someone i looked up to, HIV positive but with a positive attitude towards life. He made me feel HIV was just another chronic illness which one had to learn to coexist with but suppress . He surely was my pillar of strength.
If it's possible, can his surviving partner take over his forum on safer sex as he has first hand experience when it comes to magnetic couples.
With the way that i feel now, i begin to wonder if i'm fare on my partner who is HIV negative, is the relationship really possible or its all just a big joke.
Well, at least i have enjoyed my relationship all thanks to Dr Bob.

Comment by: Ruth
(Seattle, WA)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 3:09 am UTC
It was a shock to see Dr. Bob death announcement. He was one doctor, that we could rely on-he answered so many questions which reminded me all the time of how caring he was. It is hard to fill his gap; he was connecting to so many people. There are times i sent questions to other doctors without getting an answer and i could end up running to doctor Bob who answered them regulary. He was so friendly & i wished to meet him one day. He is one person that made me open thebody.com regulary; reading his funny jokes. May God rest his soul & provide Bob's partner strength at this diffult moment.

Comment by: Sophia Elizabeth
(San Francisco, CA)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 12:04 am UTC
I have no words to express my shock and sadness at the news that Dr. Bob passed. I have been HIV positive since 1993 and found such irreverent humor and comfort in Dr. Bob's words, courage, honesty. He changed my life and my attitude through his words. My heart goes out to his family. He will be remembered in his words and his work. I am so sorry.

Comment by: Anthony
(New York)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 10:04 pm UTC
I am truly saddended to hear of Dr. Bob's passing. His wit, intelligence and good nature were heartwarming and he will be truly missed. RIP Dr. Bob, you will be remembered by all of those whose lives you have touched.

Comment by: Richard
(Texas)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 9:33 pm UTC
I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Bob's passing. I found out I was positive in 2003 and very soon found thebody.com. Dr. Bob's take on life and HIV inspired me to know that 1. I was not alone and 2.HIV like everything else has it's ups and downs. Der. Bob's humor will be missed by millions of people living with hiv/aids I being one of them.

Comment by: Ivan88Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 6:40 pm UTC
Feeling terrible and empty by that news :S , Dr. Bob's replies were the ones that kept me sane while waiting window period before testing...
Will miss him and remember him as a terrific optimist for my entire life :/

Comment by: Lucy
(Philadelphia)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 6:29 am UTCYou seriously think that Dr. Bob went out of his way to insult people who suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder? You are mistaken. He was most helpful in his bold attempts to help people see things as they really are. Those with a partiality to unfounded beliefs often got their wrists slapped by Dr. Bob, and rightly so.

Comment by: Andrew
(Tampa, FL)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 9:19 am UTCI'm sorry, but people with OCD can't help it. That's why it's called a DISORDER. and to be called a 'flutternutter' is, yes, very insulting and nasty. What if I called an autistic kid 'stupid'? Think about it.

Comment by: Katie
(New York)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 2:44 pm UTCSad, sad people. People with OCD really should be getting the help they need and stop blaming others or focusing on unrealistic situations- it's unhealthy for their recovery. They wrote to Dr. Bob on a regular basis, if he was so rude and insulting, why wouldn't they just go talk with the type of doctor they need to? You are all insensitive and selfish. Grow up and cry to someone who cares (like a mental health profssional?). I bet if you were on TV, you wouldn't have so much to say. You are all so cowardly and immature, stop thinking of yourselves and have a little compassion. You should really be ashamed. Before you get all high and mighty- I work in the mental health field and I am compassionate to others' issues, but this just made me enraged.

Comment by: Rajeev K
(Delhi)
Mon., Oct. 3, 2011 at 7:24 am UTCKatie, i am one of OCD patients and people like DR. Bob have always helped. We need to understand, our brain has a chemical problem.Its really sad to see your comment for such a nice soul

Comment by: Katie
(New York)
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 2:59 pm UTCRajeev, if you read further my comment was responding to someone else's comment about how Dr. Bob was insulting to people with OCD. Believe me, I understand what OCD is. I also think it is sad to see people make such rude comments about Dr. Bob, assuming you meant him as the "nice soul." Well, duh.

If you thought Andrew was a nice soul for complaining about Dr. Bob's humor and tendancy to make light of these serious, probably untreated OCD symptoms, then I'm afraid you might be confused.

Comment by: David V
(Corona, CA)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 4:04 pm UTC
OMG!!! I GUESS, THE BEST WAY TO HONOR HIS LIFE AND DEATH IS BY US POZ PEOPLE CONTINUING HIS TASK OF ENLIGHTENING THOSE WHO BY REMAINING IGNORANT OF THE FACTS OF HIV KEEP THEMSELVES CHAIN TO FEAR AND PREJUDICE.

Comment by: TJ
(Minneapolis, MN)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 3:42 pm UTC
What can I even say about this talented, wonderful, fantastic man? He will be so deeply, deeply missed. I experienced a false positive scare back in 2009, and it was a real wake-up call to see how poorly informed most people are (including myself AND my doctor) about this disease. Dr. Bob was the first person to give me real, fact-based, informative guidance. And he did it all with wit, humor, and true kindness. Although my personal matter was cleared up relatively quickly, I continued to visit The Body to check up on the amazing Dr. Bob and the amazing work he was doing with so many! My shock and grief are inexpressible. What a difference he made in this world. Condolences and love to Dr. Steve. I know we are all saying a "woo hoo" prayer to you, Dr. Bob -- "be well, stay well!"

Comment by: Anonymous
(Buffalo, NY)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 1:26 pm UTC
I am so devastated by this news. Dr. Bob was the most optimistic of people. Although I never met him, he had a significant impact on me. I learned this news yesterday and dreamt of this all night. His life touched so many. I am still in shock.

Comment by: Zoe
(Mission Viejo, CA)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 12:23 pm UTC
I adore Bob's replies - he was always quick to respond to my questions and I knew better than to ask him something that was already in the archives. Some of us do learn from other people's mistakes. When I was down, I would read his replies to truly silly questions and laugh my ass off! He kept it real while others were freaking. I feel the empty spot he's left in our world.

Comment by: encomb
(Colombia, south America)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 10:18 am UTC
I felt empty. Thanks a lot to Dr Bob, nobody had taught me about HIV prevention as him. I hope somebody takes his torch and continue helping us the people of the whole world. Thanks again dear Dr Bob!!

Comment by: tsholo
(Botswana,africa)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 10:06 am UTC
i am very saddened by his passing,even though im miles away he gave me a great gift of being able to accept my partner regardless of his status.i just learnt about his passing and im so sad,may his husband and family find comfort in god's hands,he was there when i couldnt talk to anyone

Comment by: lorenzo
(italy)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 9:34 am UTC
once as I was in despair and angry with God for the brutal loss of a closed friend, I was told this story:
"God is not a hunter of souls, instead he is a merciful gardener: he picks up the best flowers when they are most beautiful"
We'll be missing your warmth and beauty Dr. Bob, thank you for helping each one of us.

Comment by: C
(Chile)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 8:22 am UTC
I cannot believe this... When we first found out about my brother's positive status, the one thing that kept us going was checking Dr. Bob's postings. Education about HIV here in Chile is almost non-existant, so his words were really a light in the darkness

Comment by: J
(Spain.)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 8:03 am UTC
I keep coming back to the forum to read the comments left about Dr Bob and each time with tears in my ears.
Such a precious man to have lost. Myself, wife and son were diagnosed over 3 yrs ago and he was one of the first people to pull us out of a hole of despair and depression to reassure me and to tell me that there was light at the end of the tunnel.
That was such an important gift to my family....possibly giving us the gift of life as we no longer considered suicide as an option.
We are now much happier, getting on with life and making plans for our future. Dr Bob, you along with some other very important people made that possible and I would like to say Thank you.

What a loss it must be for those who were closest to you. One can only imagine.

Please accept sincere sympathies from myself(poz), wife(poz), son(poz) and daughter(neg). You will be sorely missed by us all.

Comment by: MG de LujÃ¡n
(Valencia, Spain)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 6:54 am UTC
He is not gone, his spirit and soul remain with us. Thanks, dear Dr. Bob! you showed us the way. We will never forget you. Rest in peace for ever.

Comment by: Joel
(Victoria b.c)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 1:40 am UTC
Words cant explain how horrible this tradgedy is. One of the most inspiring guys that i know in my life. I had a scare a few months back and he helped me so much . Im going to miss his jokes alot . Rip dr bob your in a better place now . ;( you will be truly be missed

Comment by: AL
(Singapore)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 12:31 am UTC
Can't help but to feel a great sense of loss for mankind. He was an angel sent from God, a beacon of light to those in darkness; taken back by God to a much better place...
Rest in peace Dr. Bob; no more sufferings on earth, only joy, peace and happiness in heaven
Thanks for your wit, knowledge, love and compassion, you will be sorely missed but never forgotten
To Steve and relatives...take heart that lives had been touched/changed through Dr. Bob...and please take care (Dr. Bob would want you to)

Comment by: Mark
(Auckland New Zealand)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 10:47 pm UTC
This is very sad news that Dr Bob has passed. I have followed his advice and articles from New Zealand for many years. His practical advice and encouragement will be missed by so many around the world.

Comment by: L. Hernandez
(Miami)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 10:10 pm UTC
When I knew about my hiv status I found comfort reading Dr Bob answer. I recognize in him a profound human being who loves to help and give support. I mourning this unexpected loss. My deepest condolences to his husband and relatives.
G.d Bless You Dr Bob and may you find rest in heaven. I love you.

Comment by: Huy
(Vietnam)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 9:41 pm UTC
I feel very sand to hear about this loss. Dr. Bob is always inspiring, having a big sense of humor, and helpful. Even in the toughest circumstance, he is always funny. We lost a big friend. Rest in peace, we will be missing you.

Comment by: Bobby
(Tucker, GA)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 8:13 pm UTC
I have been an AIDS patient since only 2008 but it seems like I've known Dr. Frascino for years. He has given me a lot of comfort with his thought and wits. God's peace be with him and his husband.

Comment by: Shawn
(Washington DC)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 7:51 pm UTC
Well I know that Dr. BOB will be truely missed. He decatied is life to public service and as far as I am concerned is the highest merit a person can have in life. The gates of heaven are open and he will walk in with no interuptions. A angle called home. I am not sadden I am rejiocing because this was a person who was love and even though he has gone on to bigger and better things. He should be celebrated not mourned. Of course he will be missed thats a natural. But what people need to understand is I dont believe that DR. BOB would have wanted people to be sad but he wanted people to continue to carry the touch that he played a part in on this place called earth.

Comment by: Dave
(London, UK)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 7:24 am UTCAngela, he never called ME a "flutter-nutter" and when he did call someone by that name he did so for good reason and every effectively. Sometimes people need to be gently (and humorously) jolted back into reality.

Comment by: steve
(las vegas)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 10:02 am UTC
I just found out about this on another site, saw the picture I remembered from when i was a paranoid teen scowering the web for answers to my questions about my biggest fear.. Dr. Bob was the 1st and really only Dr. i remember finding online when I had been worried about whether i was infected or not. reading his posts brought me more answers and peace than i was able to find anywhere else. i wish i would have listened to him and protected myself better.. but i did end up testing positive. however I will always remember Dr. Bob and he will never be forgotten, he has done so much. i never knew where he worked or much about his life, i just knew that his picture was the one behind all the answers - the most and most thorough of the answers i was looking for. he didn't have to do all that, but he did. i will love and miss you always, Dr. Bob. My condolences to Dr. Steve and Dr. Bob's families and friends. I am still very shocked by this and so sad.

Comment by: Patrick
(North Texas )
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 8:08 am UTC
I'm and saddened to hear about the passing of Dr.Bob . He answered a question I posted a few years back and helped me greatly . His devotion to educating the public in general about HIV AIDS will be greatly missed.I can't thank Dr Bob enough.Rest in Peace.

Comment by: Forever Greatful
((South Africa))
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 6:44 am UTC
Rest easy Dr Bob......Sleep soft.....you are now disease free. you have done more than your share... you have touched someone as far as South Africa without even meeting them...fly high DR BOB, THE GREAT.All my love.....be well, where ever you are.

Comment by: Nina
(Nairobi, Kenya)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 5:37 am UTC
So sorry to hear of Dr. Bob's passing. A truly enlightening and knowledgable person. Always encouraging and full of humour. My thoughts and prayers go to his family at this very difficult time. He will truly be missed.

Comment by: Khalid
(UK)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 2:44 am UTC
I have always read his forums and I have always admired how he reassured his patients. I posted in August this year and now since he is gone I would like to give my deepest condolences to his family and friends, their loss is greater than ours. Most of all I admire how he helped others when he himself was ill. He was a true physician.

Comment by: Anonymous
(Norway)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 4:48 pm UTC
It was so sad to read this bad news on saturday. I couldn't write any comment until now. It hurt so much. Rest in peace, no one lives for ever, we will join him soon or later. My deepest sympathy to his loved ones.

Comment by: thabani
(Bulawayo Zimbabwe)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 4:35 pm UTC
I am so saddened by this loss. I am HIV negative but my girlfriend is HIV positive. Dr Bob showed me it was actually possible to be in such a magnetic relationship partly because he had first hand experience. I owe my happiness in my relationship to him because his encouraging words drove all unreasonable fears of HIV away and he replaced that with hope for a brighter future even with HIV in the picture. I hope all his teachings wont be nullified by his passing away.
He got me to understand that with or without HIV we all are going to die. I just want to believe that HIV had nothing to do with his death and that bacterial sepsis was there even before HIV came to be known.
Its just not fear that all i can do for him is to shed tears, when he on the other hand, gave me enough information and encouragement to build a relationship and not just pass by my opportunity of happiness.
He will be greatly missed and may his soul rest in peace.

Comment by: Remember me
(Philadelphia )
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 6:40 pm UTCYes for sure a loss while I am HIV neg I had a scare while pregnant and in 08 found out my husband was and he as in your situation made me see that a situation like this can work as well as gave comforting word while I went through the many test rip dr bob

Comment by: Rey
(Chicago, IL)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 4:24 pm UTC
Wow, I am stunned by how much this hurts. I never sent in a question but read his section of the Body regularly. His advice, humor, frankness and heart showed through in every response. My deepest prayers for his husband and family. He was someone who TRULY made a difference, and at the end of the day, it's all we can aspire to....be more like him! RIP

Comment by: J.
(Florida)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 4:10 pm UTC
I am devastated by the news. Dr. Bob helped me through the most horrific times of waiting for the window period and even beyond. He told me everything would be fine and he was right. One year later after a stupid mistake, HIV negative and STD negative. I am going to miss Dr. Bob, I never got to thank him for the help and support. Even though I never met the man but through cyberspace, I mourn for Robert Francisco like he was my own family. God bless you Dr. Bob and may your warm heart and helpful words help those in the afterlife. We love you and will miss you eternally.

Comment by: Huy
(Vietnam)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 12:57 am UTCYes, i feel very sad too. Dr. Bob is always right in his assessments. We are very grateful to him for his precious time to answer even he was coping with the disease.

May God bless you!

Comment by: Jason
(Atlanta GA)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 3:11 pm UTC
Since becoming positive and being a part of The Body listserve, I came to encounter Dr. Bob and his great knowledge that he passed on to us. I am sad and feel a void now when I read this message that he had passed. We are all lucky to have had you on our side Dr. Bob....you will be deeply missed! Carry on mister, now fly to God with the angels for you are in eternal peace.

Comment by: Dan
(Dayton, OH)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 2:14 pm UTC
Chute, I was just going to write in, asking if he heard of the 'Cats glow in the dark for AIDS' and 'Gamer' experiments. What was also never answered, though, was what needle sticks look like and if you'd motice if you got one. I was so surpirse that, even in the archives, that's not there since it seemed to be a 'QTND'

Comment by: KaaMon., Aug. 27, 2012 at 6:37 am UTCTears are not enough to express my sorrows. Dr. Bob, even though I haven't met you in person, your words surprisingly touched every part of my heart. They are funny and warmhearted. All my anxiety about HIV is cleared out everytime when I was reading your answers. After one year busy life not worrying about HIV, yesterday I suddenly wanted to hear from you again to feel your humor and comforting words, but I can't see your picture on the main page then I started to worry. When I finally found this sad and astounding news, I cried just like someone so closed to me has gone. Dr. Bob you will live in my heart forever. Like all people said, I will give you a big hug up there.

Comment by: AnonymousMon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 12:48 pm UTC
Thank you, Dr. Steve, for sharing the goodness, wit, and intelligence of your wonderful, gifted mate with so many all over the world. We who were touched by his spirit will remember his light and hold our own candles high for the cause and in his honor. Peace to you, Bob and Steve, dear and glorious physicians.

Comment by: Jackson
(Iowa City)
Fri., Sep. 30, 2011 at 4:32 am UTCWord. All condolences to Dr. Steve and anyone else in Dr. Bob's life, but we should respectfully take this as a cue to fight for something more than the current treatment standards.

Comment by: Herb
(Simi Valley, CA)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 9:33 am UTC
The only thing that was troubling was that the Dr. didn't believe that anything was possible. Yes, I myself have seen needles (drug or insulin or pens)in strange places..ferris wheel seats, bus stop parking lots, and supermarkets. He called everyone that did 'flutternutters' That bothered me to no end.

Comment by: Herman
(Amsterdam, Netherlands.)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 10:58 am UTCHerb, you have not made clear your reservation, but I think Dr. Bob was most probably very wise in whatever it was he said which you did not like. Quite a lot of people got their wrists slapped by him for silly thinking, and rightly so. We admired him for being so direct in such cases, rather than just letting people to think the ridiculous.

Comment by: Kevin
(Baltimore)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 6:59 pm UTCHerb, what is your problem? Your talking about a man that gave hope to thousands of people and did more than you or me could hope to do in the rest of our lives. I won't turn this section into a argument, we are here to pay tribute to a man that, even though we did not know him, he was a friend to everyone here. He was ill himself but would of answered your question no matter how rude you were to him. If there were more people like Dr.Bob this place would be a much better place. Herman I feel bad for you. Dr.Bob may god bless your journey to heaven. You have earned your seat to enternal bliss. Thank you for everything you have done here. You have touched more people than you will ever give yourself credit for.

Comment by: Dave
(Scranton, PA)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 9:09 am UTC
AIDS is a death sentence. Year after year of taking the toxic drugs used to fight it can't exactly be good for you, either. RIP, Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Robert
(Florida)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 2:00 am UTCI disagree completely, and I think Dr Bob would have also. AIDS (HIV) is NOT a death sentence. It is, however, a life sentence. As Darwin said, "Adapt or perish." Which, those toxic drugs are the first step of the long journey toward.

The real death sentence is birth. We have but a cosmic flash in between the two with which to add our sugar to this often bitter existence.

Seeing him from the viewpoint of a disabled disability advocate, Dr Bob definately had my respect. Psychologically, he held a million hands, at least. Imagine the strength of character it took to freely reach out to those fearing, often whining about, what he dealt with every minute of every day. To do so with the joviality and humour that he did? A pianist and world traveler/speaker also? I don't think Dr. Bob's tombstone should read RIP. Rather, "Holy sh.. What a ride!"

Comment by: Pierre
(Paris.)
Tue., Sep. 27, 2011 at 11:07 am UTCRobert, your answer is so good! Yes, a person could say that "Life is a death sentence" because it is sure that we will all die sometime while we are alive!

HIV/AIDS used to be a quick and awful death sentence for most infected people. Then some scientists began developing a whole range of drugs which mean that it isn't such a death sentence anymore. There are some HIV people around today who have been carrying the virus for almost 30 years. I know one person who has been HIV for 26 years and he is thriving. He counts himself really lucky. So should we all.

Dave can view the glass as half-empty but I think it would be better for him to view it as half-full.

Comment by: Douglas
(Aberdeen, Scotland)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 8:39 am UTC
What's clear from the several hundred messages of condolence that have been posted here already is that Doctor Bob touched us in a special way and the right way. But he was only a man. He was only choosing to do the right things. He knew that one of the most important things a patient needs is reassurance that what they have said has been heard and understood. So Dr. Bob would use humour to make it clear that he had fully understood where you were "coming from", what you had tried to get across. This gave us confidence in whatever he then said in the serious part of his replies.

Let us hope that many other doctors will see from this page how they too can be highly effective as doctors and advisors. I have posted questions to other experts at The Body and received short, sometimes very short, replies that have left me feeling unsure whether the doctor has fully understood and considered everything that I said in my question. With Dr. Bob I never had that feeling. He was prepared to take the time to start his replies by fully assuring you (and in a humorous way too) that he had heard you.

I hope he receives a posthumous award.

We have tried to have the gay press here in the UK post an article on Dr. Bob's death but they have shown no interest. They don't appear to be interested in "bad news from the HIV/AIDS community".

Comment by: Alexander M
(Finland)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 7:29 am UTC
Returning to my condolences for Dr.Bob a little more.. I once had bacterial sepsis and it nearly got my life too, so it has nothing to do with HIV/AIDS necessarily, U can get it from dirt, mud.. anything contaminated that has bacteries which gets to your blood stream.

Comment by: Alexander M
(Finland)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 7:21 am UTC
Im as devastated as anyone of you who enjoyed his warm kindness and uttermost wittiness. I only once contacted him sometime 2006 asking issues related to one other remarkable late person, Freddie Mercury whether he would have lived longer without AZT or not. It doesnt really matter now when Dr. Bob is gone too.

There were times I felt little envy even jealous to his immensively broad english vocabulary and ways to put that across.

Sleep well.. you are the champion just like F.M. Now you can play with him in the heavens.

Comment by: Latish M.
(Mumbai)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 6:29 am UTC
I just browsed the site and heard the VERY Heartbreaking news of Dr. Bob passing away. He was a saint to all whether HIV positive or negative. I have got many a advise from him in the past and I am sure he has relaxed many anxious souls out there. My good luck charm will always be with you. GOD BLESS YOU and you ENTIRE FAMILY!

Comment by: SS
(Kolkata,India)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 5:54 am UTC
I am really shocked to see this . I was looking forward to reading Dr Bob's latest blog when I saw this sad news . My condolences to Dr Steve and their families .
All I can about Dr Bob is that he was a brilliant man . He had super sound knowledge of medicine and at the same time since he was himself affected by this deadly disease , he knew the pains of a person inflicted by HIV . I was really worried about my exposure when his answers to my post on the body.com gave me much comfort . In a way he has saved my life . I owe a lot to you Dr Bob . may your soul rest in peace . I love you so much . Shall really miss you . Please take my heartfelt thanks once again . You were like God to me .

Comment by: Diego
(Portland, Oregon)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 1:58 am UTC
The passing of Dr Bob is heartwrenching
and profusely sad. Beyond a gifted
doctor, he embodied character traits
that inspired, encouraged, and made life
not only meaningful but also enjoyable.
The amount of time that he took to personally
address readers' comments is simply staggering.
His responses reflected his inordinate intelligence and his unvarnished compassion for
all those who needed his soothing and outstretched
hand. A caregiver and humanitarian of
exemplary standing.
If Dr. Bob has helped any of you over the years,
please show him the respect he rightfully deserves.
Say a prayer and say it with conviction.
He will hear your words even if spoken
with whisper-like softness.
May God Bless Dr. Bob and bathe him in
the infinite beauty of heaven.
Thank You

Comment by: Eyob
(Ethiopia)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 1:28 am UTC
I am sorry to hear that it was sudden and untimely death of him. He wanted to end his life and thats what he did. I sock by his death. I feel sorry for his family and hope the best for them but I don't feel sorry for his death.

Comment by: Lost soul
(Phoenix, AZ)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 10:34 pm UTC
This is the first time I felt this in my life: How people touch each other even without meeting once.This feels like a personal loss, a loss that will sadden me for days to come.
I asked him a few questions and his words are still in my mailbox.If I could touch those words, I would again talk with him.

Comment by: Robin
(Birmingham, al)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 9:42 pm UTC
My heart is so saddened by this news! Although I didn't know Dr. Bob personally it felt like i did. His positive attitude and awesome sense of humor was always so uplifting. He was truly a gifted doctor and a friend even to those of us that didn't know him. Surely God has a special place for him! He will live on forever in the hearts of everyone he touch!! Forever missed!!!

Comment by: Tiffany
(Malaysia)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 7:44 pm UTC
The lost of Doctor Bob it feels like the hope of surreal. May God bless Doc Bob and put him in the best heaven of all the people. Its a big loss for all of us.

Comment by: TeriSun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 1:38 pm UTC
Dr. Bob, what a loss the world has with your passing. You always knew when to be humorous or serious. When my daughter passed from complications of HIV and every year on the anniversary, you would post such touching words. Thank you for all you gave to this world. I am sure you are now dancing in paradise with your brother and playing music for all the angels.

Comment by: J
(Belgium)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 1:08 pm UTC
Thanks for all the enlightenment and humour you gave over the years. I've been a regular reader of your forums since being HIV positive, 5 years ago. I will miss you. Strength to all those you leave behind.
J, Belgium

Comment by: A. Mister
(Middle East)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 1:03 pm UTC
The good die young as they say, 99 or 109 would've been too early to lose a human with the qualities of Dr. Bob.

In times gone by a man with his spirit, his insight, his compassion, his eloquence would've been hailed as a saint, if not a prophet.

It is a testament to his Bob-ness how he touched so many from all walks of life all over the world by just by his written word, imagine if we'd had the pleasure to meet him

I will never forget you Dr. Bob and my gratitude for all you have done for me will stay with me forever.

If when my time comes, I go as half the man you were, leaving half the legacy, it would have been a life very well spent. You are a true hero and what you lost in length of days you made up for in glory.

Comment by: Mariam
(Kaduna, Nigeria)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 12:56 pm UTC
Although I am negative, I subscribed to NEWS OF THE BODY to learn more about AIDS.I got to love Dr. Bob,s humorous style of answering seemingly serious questions.The news of his death came as a shock. May Dr. Bob rest in peace. we shall all miss you.

Comment by: Dr Andre Hill
(Jamaica)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 9:54 am UTC
I just found out today that Dr Bob died on Sept 17.I am so deeply saddened by his passing it hurts.I have the greatest respect for him and have always found his work on HIV and his support to people living with and afraid that they may have been infected to be touching and incomparable.As long as I live,I will ever remember Dr Bob.I love you.Rest now in God's arms.Tears....

Comment by: BEAU
(NJ)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 2:52 am UTC
I struggle with OCD. Dr.Bob responded to my fears with warmth, compassion and humor. I read so many of his posts and blogs, he seemed like he was a dear personal friend. I actually loved the man. He was a great source of courage and an inspiration to me. I will miss him very much.

Comment by: shah
(GB)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 1:47 am UTC
i have no words to say about his great personality and help to all the people who got his support , he personally answered my queries about HIV may God help you as you helped us, all my prayers for him and his family.Dr Bob you will be missed forever and will never be forgotten you are in our hearts and will remain.

Comment by: Dan
(Maine)
Sun., Sep. 25, 2011 at 1:39 am UTC
I will print and frame his answer to me as a reminder of the lesson i was almost taught and his firm but kind admonishment to stop testing ! He owns Whooo Hooo in my life whenever it appears. I'll leave it to another to express my feelings :
"His life was gentle; and the elements
So mixdt in him , that Nature might stand up
and say to all the world,
THIS WAS A MAN ! "----Shakespeare, Julius Caesar

Comment by: mark ertel
(ware, ma)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 9:12 pm UTC
another tragic loss in the course of this disease, a loss played out far to frequently taking far to many people. Dr. Bob was a strong voice for the never ending struggle for hiv positive people to be treated as people not as victims or outcasts. my condolences to dr. bobs family and friends for their loss.

Comment by: LostSoulLA
(Los Angeles, CA)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 8:18 pm UTC
Dr. Bob, may you rest in peace. I have never met you, nor ever spoken to you over the phone, but I felt like I've known you for a long time. You were there for me when I went through the worst HIV-scare crisis in my life; you answered my questions (more than once) on the forum, and has encouraged me to test and face the truth. I did, and was glad I did because it relieved me of all my worries. Even after the crisis, I find myself returning to your forum time after time. Your words is overflown with kindness and humor. Never once did you make a biased and judgmental statement to even the most ignorant poster. Reading your posts makes me feel optimistic and strong, that maybe there is hope to humanity after all. Dr. Bob - you're my hero and always will be. You have touched me deeply and my life was forever changed because of you. I will miss you dearly.

Dr Steve - my thoughts and prayers are with you. Please take care of yourself as Dr. Bob will not have it any other way. Just know that myself and countless others are thinking of you and praying for you and being there for you, just as you and Dr. Bob had done for us for so long.

Comment by: TM
(Gabon)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 8:11 pm UTC
Dear Dr Bob,There has never been,there isn't and there will never be any like you.We will continue the fight but we will and have already started missing you immensely.You were a gift to humanity and the light at the end of the dark tunnel.Your passing away is a hard reality and will always be a difficult thing to stay with.You were a man full of life and joy and you were practically and theoritically teaching us how to live.We will never forget you.Farewell Dr Bob and a big hug.With tears, ADIOS

Comment by: Juan Pablo
(Bogota, Colombia)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 5:41 pm UTC
You left an invaluable legacy of generosity and wisdom in this world, thanks God we all had the joy of lighting our lives with your words

Comment by: GJ
(CA)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 11:57 pm UTCOh "ferhevinsakes" as Dr. Bob would say. That's because the scientific data are clear - ARVs save lives. Period. As a scientist, I had to say it. There's always a "bat sh*t crazy fluffernutter" (as Dr. Bob would say) willing to believe almost anything. Get your head out of the sand.

Comment by: Martin
(Wellington, New Zealand.)
Mon., Sep. 26, 2011 at 8:27 am UTCWell said, GJ! You have dealt with Xian's silly comment in the way that Dr. Bob would have! Well done!

The deluded and/or paranoid AIDS-denialists are incapable of dealing with evidence. They don't have the necessary brainpower.

Dr. Bob died of bacterial sepsis. Anyone can die of this at any time. A big hunky burly farmer way out in the countryside can suddenly die of bacterial sepsis. All it takes is a little cut and for some nasty bacteria to get in from contact with soil and so forth and then it can be the end, yes, even for a big hunky gorgeous-looking muscle-bound HIV-negative farmer out there in the fields!

Your spirit lives on Dr. Bob!

Comment by: Florence
(Kisumu, Kenya)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 1:59 pm UTC
I feel very bad, I am shocked and now I am very worried for myself. I had almost believed (thanks to Dr. Bob) that HIV is nothing... May His Soul Rest in Peace

Comment by: GF
(California )
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 3:47 pm UTCDr. Bob never ever said that HIV was nothing. On the contrary. Despite the latest antivirals that can hold HIV in check, he argued that HIV is still very much a very, very, VERY big deal. He wrote extensively on this. However you came to "almost" believe that HIV is nothing, this surely did not come from Dr. Bob's message.

Comment by: maxui
(South Africa)
Wed., Sep. 28, 2011 at 7:38 am UTCDear GF
You have no way of knowing how Dr Bob affected Florences life.

Dr Bob provided hope to those with HIV. His attitude and zest for life made many people feel like they had a life to live regardless a positive HIV status.
I think this is what Florence was trying to convey, Your reply to her comment is harsh and demeaning, Two things Dr bob was not, ever.

Comment by: Florence
(Kisumu, Kenya)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 2:05 pm UTCI can't believe you guys are quarreling about my post when all of us should be mourning Dr. Bob!!
Before I discovered The Body.com and Dr.Bob I thought the HIV burden was almost overwhelming but I read and learn so much from Dr.Bob such that HIV became non-issue in my life, I lived my life normally..
I guess I have had no sleepless nights over my HIV status for since January 2009... so HIV is like 'nothing' to me.... [I don't know if that makes it clearer GF]

Comment by: Bethsheba
(Houston)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 1:11 pm UTC
He will be missed as he has touched so many lives.

Comment by: fubby
(Lisbon, Portugal)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 12:50 pm UTC
Dr. Bob Frascino was a like a celebrity to me. I know it's too much to ask but I would like to know more details about his last days. I guess I have thousands of his posts to read in the archives, so he'll still be somewhat alive in my mind. Anyway, I already miss him.

Dr. Steve, I'm sorry for your loss and I hope you can get through this and get on with your life. From his posts, you were certainly very happy together and I know he loved you very much.

Comment by: Tom
(Illinois)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 8:43 am UTC
Another intelligent, kind and courageous voice has been silenced. Who will fill the large void that Dr. Bob has left behind? I’m especially thankful for Dr. Bob’s forward looking articles on the potential for cures. May HIV researchers, and pharmaceutical companies in particular, start looking at early treatment with the least toxic and least expensive treatment to prevent the destruction that HIV brings to nearly everyone it touches.

Comment by: martin
(barcelona)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 4:59 am UTC
i was shocked to hear about that. Dr Bob was one of my true heroes since i became infected with HIV in 2008. I thought with faith and the right attitude and people like Dr Bob we can all become invincible.
Being infected himself enabled him to cross the gap between expert and patient and together with his great humour , humanity and energy he was a true leader that helped me keepi going. I feel like when Alexander the Great died an i was one of his soldiers. Thanks Dr Bob.

Comment by: Salvador
(Barcelona, Catalonia)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 4:07 am UTC
I'm in shock to learn Dr Bob Frascino passed away!. Now you read him, next you won't !. I would always look forward to his useful and uplifting comments to the extent of wishing to meet him and his partner Dr Steve at some point to share the known and challenge the unknown. The stellar light path of his deeds in the universe of HIV care is bound to be astronomically bright and long. My heartfelt thanks and boundless fellowship, and a virtual hug to Dr Steve.

Comment by: KD
(London, England)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 1:31 am UTC
It is staggering to believe that Dr Bob has left us. His infectious personality, all round vitality and humour were a becon of hope to all of us who's life changed course as a result of HIV. From a personal perspective, he gave me the courage to believe that magnetic relationships were possible and to be brave in the dating game. To say he will be missed does not do justice to the impact his passing will have. To his husband, family, friends and colleagues - my sincere condolences. Heaven has a new shinning star.

Comment by: PabloSat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 1:14 am UTC
After my partner was diagnosed with HIV, learning about Dr. Bob and reading his blog and responses helped me cope with the disease. His wit and positiveness were inspiring. I am shocked to learn he is no longer with us and I hope he will continue to be an inspiration to everyone.

Comment by: Neal Rzepkowski, MD
(Cassadaga, NY )
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 12:56 am UTC
I will miss "Dr. Bob" on this earth plane. He was an inspirational role model for me, who am also an HIV+ doc and 59 years old. I know he is warmly welcomed in the "Spirit World" where my former patients will get much love and benefit from him. The best honor I can give him is to try to continue to give my patients the love, understanding and encouragement he joyfully and humorously gave all of us. My condolences to all who feel his loss. With love and respect from "Dr. Neal".

Comment by: Sammie
(Toronto)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 12:23 am UTC
I really don't know what to say but that your life deserves a standing ovation. You lived life to the fullest and selflessly made a difference in the lives of people who needed you day in and out. You were the super star of this whole show Dr Bob, truly I feel that there is no thebody.com without Robert. No one can replace you and may you find comfort in the arms of the creator. My prayers go out to your family. May you be free from every bond of sin. See you when the time comes.

Comment by: Deepak
(USA)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 11:42 pm UTC
I am really shocked with this news.I went through a HIV scare in 2003 and when I was going through the window period it was because of Dr Bob only I was able to get courage and go through it. I really used to love him. He answered to lot of my questions and he always used to say "whenever you need me I am here.OK".
Tribute to a great man. Donation for your foundation is on the way Dr Bob.I know that many like me will always miss you. You will always remain in our heart.God Bless you.

Comment by: mj
(texas)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 8:52 pm UTC
well,
it has been almost a week since you died and I already can barely stand it. I used look forward to you "talking" to me daily. I am very isolated and I would check daily for your posts. I don't think I am going to do very well at all without you. I do not want to reread what you have wrote because I think it will make me sadder. How many more people do we have to lose? I am so sad for Dr. Steve. I cannot imagine the pain he is going through right now to think that he will have so many years without you. There isn't even a reason to check this website anymore-no one else talks to us the way you do.
mj

Comment by: R
(WV)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 8:23 pm UTC
What a horrible loss to this forum. This man was so remarkable! He was kind, witty, and above all compassionate to those who posted to this forum. I have followed this forum for the past couple of years and was always impressed with how he always ended his posts with a positive note; especially those who had been recently diagnosed. He always ended his comments in the same manner: "I'm here if you need me, OK?"
Eventhough I personally do not know the pain of having this virus, it touched my life a couple of years ago---through a friend who means the world to me. I have become so much more knowledgeable by avidly reading this forum.
Truly, Dr. Bob was a jewel. My eyes filled with tears as I read in disbelief of his passing. GOD has a special place for people who encourage, support, and believe in others.
As stated in the attached link, it's not the beginning or the end that matters, it's what happened in between that does.
We will all miss him more than he will ever know.
I extend deepest sympathy to his family and especially the love of his life that he frequently referenced: Dr. Steve.
http://thedashmovie.com/

Comment by: T.rex
(Los Angeles)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 5:30 pm UTC
I'm sorry to hear about this. He printed a few of my questions over the years, and while he and I had some disagreements on theory, at times, I was still grateful for his input.

Comment by: Jean-Baptiste
(Caen, France)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 5:28 pm UTC
I cant believe it ... I am so saddened by this lost. Thank you for being an amazing doctor, with humor and unlimited compassion. Dr Bob you were an extraordinary person. We will miss you. My thoughts and prayers to your husband and family.

Comment by: David Troup
(San Francisco, CA)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 4:44 pm UTC
I was privileged to be a patient of Bob's for a number of years, until his untimely retirement, and would keep up with his life through his husband, Steve, and when I'd occasionally run into him here and there. More than I realized, I thought of Bob as a rock which would always be there. The news of his passing cuts like a knife.

Bob's amazing spirit touched so many people, as evidenced by the postings here. He was so beloved and will be so missed. The world is a lesser place for his departure. My heart goes out to Steve and to Bob's family at this very difficult time.

Comment by: imfinished
(Nigeria)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 3:52 pm UTC
I am highly saddened that this have to happen. Dr Bob was so good in his job...He had a way of making you happy and reducing your fear. Now he is no more and i wonder how much of a woo hoo we will have in this forum. I am stunned beyond words and hope his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Comment by: Janie
(Texas)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 5:14 pm UTCI'm shocked and more sad than I can express. Dr. Bob was an amazing man with talents and abilities so far beyond ordinary. His wit and compassion are legendary! The words generous, brilliant, amazing don't even begin to describe him. I am heart-broken, and send my condolences and warmest regards to Dr. Steve, his family, friends, and those whose lives he enriched and touched.

Comment by: Alex
(Roma Italy)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 3:14 pm UTC
He is been so helpfull and always been a point of reference for so many of us, grazie.
No words can express what a wonderful man he was...
Dr. Steve, I am so sorry for your loss
Addio Bob

Comment by: Jeffrey Jenne
(Philadelphia, PA)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 2:55 pm UTC
As a positive guy whom others have relyed on for information, advice, and words of wisdom, so I have depended on Dr. Bob. I always looked forward to reading his perspective on The Body. I can't say enough how much he will be misssed.

Comment by: BMW Princess
(canada)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 2:40 pm UTC
Holy sh*t
I cannot believe it. Hi loved reading Dr. Bob's ask the experts colum. He was really funny. He could take a sirious medical condion and prove that you could still have humour. Laughter is indeed the best medicine.

Comment by: Billy
(Hickory NC)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 2:31 pm UTC
I just returned from my visit with my HIV doctor to find out this sad news. I have told my doctor that the wonderful information provided by Dr. Bob and others have kept me sane since my trip began with this virus. I am sure that the crowd was large at the gate when Dr. Bob arrived and I know that he will be waiting for the rest of us when that time comes. God Bless.

Comment by: Sakis
(Greece)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 12:59 pm UTC
Dr Bob thank you... A big loss... You will be missed by thousands of people. My condolences to Steve...
Young doctors should have Dr Bob as an example

Comment by: John
(Australia)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 12:25 pm UTC
Dr Bob was a man of incredible knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS when someone received an HIV+ diagnosis they where confused scared ashamed and in shock but Dr Bob would be like a warm blanket on a freezing cold night providing comfort with his words of wisdom and an amazing sense of humour we the HIV community love & miss you Dr Robert Franscino your work was all in the day of the life of someone who believed that we should NEVER give up hope regarding this VIRUS!!!!!!!

Comment by: Tom
(London)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 10:41 am UTC
As part of a magnetic couple, I used these pages to educate myself. Nobody made a bigger impact on me than Dr. Bob. His views were realistic, backed up by science and plain common sense. We have lost a magnificent educator.

Comment by: Dana
(Cerritos, CA)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 10:00 am UTC
I don't believe that it wasn't an AIDS complication. People don't just 'get sepsis'. This idisease needs to be erraticated NOW. I don't know why it's not. Thank you, Dr. Bob. For everything. Words can not describe all the good that you did for people all over the Globe. RIP.

Comment by: Jennifer
(California )
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 12:33 am UTCYou are entitled to believe whatever you want. But the fact is that, yes, people do get sepsis. Sepsis not at all common. Most cases of sepsis are in HIV negative people.

Comment by: Dana
(Cerritos, CA)
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 11:07 am UTCActually, it happens to the elderly, the sick, and/or the very young mostly. Can it happen in other patients and non-HIV? Sure. But you yourself just wrote 'Sepsis not at all common"..

Comment by: GJ
(CA )
Sat., Sep. 24, 2011 at 4:02 pm UTCMy field is the biology of HIV. Just because something isn't common does not mean that HIV is the culprit. Anyone of any age (regardless of HIV status) can get sepsis. Other 59 year old (HIV negative) men have died from Sepsis.

With Dr. Bob's case, not enough information is available to even be able to speculate. Personally, I prefer data over "beliefs" or gut reactions. So was it or wasn't it HIV related with Dr. Bob? Who knows. But going on just a belief doesn't cut it.

Comment by: aafrin
(Pune, India)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 9:29 am UTC
It was heartbreaking to hear about the sad demise of Dr. Bob. His thought provoking,humorous and insightful answers to even most silly questions put life in perspective. My condolences to Dr. Steve and their family. He will always be remembered. RIP.

Comment by: Ariel
(Davie.FL)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 9:29 am UTC
I cant believe it .... Doctor Bob, we will always remember you .Thank you for all your work and passion for the HIV community !!! We will miss you.

Comment by: Ruu
(Johannesburg, SA)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 8:43 am UTC
Oh my word, I have never met the man and have never sent anything to him directly, yet I have read his comments and have been empowered more than anybody will ever imagine. My heart is sore.
Most sincere condolences to everybody whose lives he has touched.

Comment by: Jeremy
(Massachusetts)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 7:51 am UTC
Dr. Bob's writing has answered many questions about my own HIV over the years. And his sense of humor was second to none. We have lost lost a very good man.

Comment by: aafrin
(Pune, India)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 7:36 am UTC
It was heartbreaking to hear about the sad demise of Dr. Bob. His thought provoking,humorous and insightful answers to even most silly questions put life in perspective. My condolences to Dr. Steve and their family. He will always be remembered. RIP.

Comment by: Reginald
(Lagos, Nigeria.)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 7:08 am UTC
It is really sad and shocking. Dr. Bob was one guy that helped me get confidence that HIV is not a death sentence, now for him to die suddenly leaves one imagining what can happen to people that do not have access to the info he has in HIV. God grant him enternal rest and my heart goes to his family.We will miss him. And it appears his last post was prophetic. He assures that 99.99% of questions are already in the archives. God Bless your soul Bob. Your Flag will fly high.

Comment by: AnonymousFri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 6:19 am UTC
ITS REALLY A GREAT LOST:Dr Bob has touch my live in many way through his advise for HIV possitive patient. I have been able to improve my counseling skill and manage my patient well. you will forever be remembered for this.
Ajiboluwa Lizzy (Nigeria)

Comment by: Penny
(MALAWI)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 6:17 am UTC
I am saddened by the death of Dr Bob you know in Africa and especially here in Malawi there not doctor patient relationship where you can share you experience about what you are going through as an HIV patient but with Dr Bob though I never met him personally he touch my heart at a time when no one could answer personal questions that were bothering my soul he did and I was saved from many dangers. To you Dr Bob I say rest in peace and I hope the soldiers you have left behind witll continue doing the good work from where to left from. RIP.

Comment by: Robert de Groot
(Netherlands)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 5:58 am UTC
With sadness I join the hundreds of mourners by saying that I always appreciated greatly Dr. Bob's contribution to The Body. He will be terribly missed for his wonderful humor that was also very much clear and to the point. May he rest in peace and strength to his husband.

Comment by: Sunny
(Malaysia)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 5:54 am UTC
Damn the virus! Dr. Bob was THE most generous, honest and truthful expert of HIV/AIDS online particularly for those with queries regarding safe sex, HIV prevention, and for hypochondriacs and individuals with 'irrational fear of HIV/AIDS like some of us - SYMPTOMS! He did a lot squashing all those symptomatic myths related to HIV and propagated by Dr. Google. He did a lot to allay us about the true nature of the virus with clear cut facts - to the point, simple and easy to understand. And he did it with an authoritative voice of such assurance that he reminds me of a very kind and caring father. Dr. Bob is one of the major reasons I keep returning to this wonderful website whenever I am in need of the latest updates about HIV/AIDS or just to read through the amusing and interesting questions and Dr. Bob's equally amusing and interesting answers. My deepest condolence goes to his immediate and family and loved ones.

Comment by: Akpezi
(Nigeria)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 4:45 am UTC
You made the most complex issues easy and witty. Best of all, you made us know that we are normal-just like others-considering that in my part of the world, being HIV+ makes you a social outcast.

Comment by: imfinished
(Nigeria)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 4:00 pm UTCI feel your pain, i know what you are passing through and the role Dr bod must have played in your life. Be strong and i promise you all will be fine.

Comment by: James
(Sydney, Australia)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 4:34 am UTC
This can't be true! Dr Bob's great humour and wise advice has kept me going for the past few years. I'm so terribly saddened to hear about this.

Comment by: simon
(amsterdam)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 3:39 am UTC
He was there the first frightening dark days. He was there when it seems that skys can still be blue. Witty, or serious on political unjustesd and shortsighted stupidness. Always mindfull with a eye for all.
Thank you Dr Bob for being there! And strenght for Steve and relatives!

Comment by: Hope
(South Africa)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 3:38 am UTC
I am saddened beyond words, i am in tears my whole body is shaking. Dr Bob yo gave me hope and strengh to live when i had nothing left in me. Your resilience and sense of humour made me believe that this little bug cannot destroy me. Thank you for your immense generosity and love! You have touched millions of lives around the world, you have given us hope. Thank you thank you. Rest in Peace.

Comment by: Nik Vanbemmel
(London, UK)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 3:36 am UTC
Dr Bob, I never knew you personally, but I have always been impressed by your strength, determination, fortitude and resiliance. I am so sad that you have been taken, but you will live on in our thoughts.
Love and Peace from London UK.

Comment by: Tom Ovlien
(Norway)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 3:04 am UTC
This news really made me so unhappy this morning. And i feel so sorry for Roberts husband. The body.com and its readers has lost one of its most popular and wise doctors. For the last almost 10 years, i have every week checked on thebody.com, and always tried to read some of Roberts answers. Always to the point and sharp, always seriously trying to help someone in need of knowledge, and always with a witty twist to it. How i will miss dr Roberts comments on thebody.com.

Comment by: Mario Sepúlbeda García
(Madrid, Spain)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 2:52 am UTC
a very sad news that touched my heart. I have no words to express my feelings. He will stay with us for ever, no doub. God bless you, wherever you are, dear Dr. Bob and thanks a lot for your support and help in our moments of difficulty and worry, may God bless you for that.

Comment by: A Huge Fan
(California )
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 1:52 am UTC
I am completely devastated to hear that Dr. Bob has passed away. I want to share this: I am not a worried well. I do not have HIV. I never interacted with him. One day, I came across his blog and his Q&A quite accidentally, and immediately became addicted to his writing. I read post after post, and couldn't stop. After reading thousands upon thousands of his posts I felt as if I almost knew him (as much s one can from reading posts).

What an amazing person! What a sense of humor! I looked forward to each new post he made. I LOVED hearing about his dear husband, his parents, his travels, and other little details he would share with his readers. I loved Dr. Bob for his humanity and his amazing writing.

I keep thinking about his dear husband he has left behind and his parents. Words fail.

Dr. Bob, I enjoyed reading anything you wrote. To say you are a special person is an understatement. You are one of a kind, and completely irreplaceable. You never met me. But I was such a huge fan of yours. Your intelligence, your humanity, your wit, your passion, all such wonderful attributes that made you the person you were. My heart breaks.

Comment by: sandeep
(FL)
Thu., Sep. 29, 2011 at 2:05 am UTC I interacted with bob three weeks back abt a question , can you pls send his blog link , this is very big loss , his life worth living .. it is very hard to some other doctors to fill in his big shoes ...
I really wish some one can replace bob's place in this forum which benifited atleast million people till date

Comment by: Nonhlakanipho Makeka
(Durban - South Africa)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 1:19 am UTC
For Dr. Robert - he has fought the good fight, ran the race and finished the pace. May his soul rest in peace. He might be gone but will remain in the heart of those who truly benefited in his contributions he has contributed in the lives of many living with HIV/AIDS

Comment by: Greg
(Melbourne Australia)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 12:13 am UTC
I got a lot of confidence, in the advise Dr Bob provided, across thebody.com. I am sure that this really is a huge loss, to not only the staff at the body.com yet also to the HIV community

Comment by: frank
(thailand)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 11:39 pm UTC
I was shocked to find out about Dr. Bob's passing. Apparently caused by something not even related to HIV. He has been a star of hope to all of us Hiv posisitive people and also to lots of hiv negative people just trying to get info. on the disease. My sincerest condolences to you husband Steve and both you families and friends. KEEP SHINNING.

Comment by: David
(Roanoke,VA)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 11:37 pm UTC
Dr.Bob,now this news makes me sad, but I know you would not want us to be. Thank you for being you, my thoughts and prayers to your husband and family.

Comment by: frank poulsen
(thailand)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 11:37 pm UTC
I was shocked to find out about Dr. Bob's passing. Apparently caused by something not even related to HIV. He has been a star of hope to all of us Hiv posisitive people and also to lots of hiv negative people just trying to get info. on the disease. My sincerest condolences to you husband Steve and both you families and friends. KEEP SHINNING.

Comment by: gregory
(Caribbean)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 11:11 pm UTC
I am also saddened by the news.I don't know how I stumbled onto this site,but it is a "Godsend".I will always be inspired by his advise and"homely feeling",he shared with us all,giving each and everyone hope and aspiration,when we felt there was none.May the almighty take him into his loving arms..Amen.

Comment by: Paul Hirt
(Kansas City, MO)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 10:57 pm UTC
In the relatively short time that I have been a subscriber to the Body I have come to appreciate the comments of Dr Bob and truly enjoyed reading him. I know he will be sorely missed.

Comment by: Magda (Marthda)
(Dearborn, MI)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 10:50 pm UTC
This is very sad news. I never met him but I read and enjoyed a lot his postings. I recently sent him questions regarding my nephew's HIV situation and he promptly answered in a very humane and respectful manner and with helpful information and encouragement. May God be with him and may he be in peace in heaven. Kalo taxidi Dr. Bob

Comment by: Sherrie Bain
(Florida)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 9:57 pm UTC
So very sorry to hear about Dr. Bob. I loved reading his columns and responses to questions. He was a special soul and his impact will remain with us despite his physical absence.

Comment by: Jan Willem de Lind van Wijngaarden
(Surat Thani, Thailand)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 9:43 pm UTC
Dr Bob was a wise and inspiring man. He helped me realise the importance of wit and humor to connect to people in order to teach them something or bring them some news. I try to apply that in my work every day. Rest in peace, Dr Bob, and I wish his husband, family, friends and colleagues at The Body all the best.

Comment by: Tom McGrath
(Massachusetts)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 9:29 pm UTC
I am really stunned to learn this news of Dr. Bob's passing. He was kind and generous enough to answer a few questions I posed on the site over the years. As one who has lost 2 former partners to HIV/AIDS, my prayers and thoughts are with partner, Dr. Steve and both families.

As one of my aunts used to say, God doesn't call for you unless he has your velvet chair waiting and Dr. Bob now occupies that chair looking over all of us.

Comment by: Tamara
(Michigan)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 9:12 pm UTC
Such a loss! He was the one who always answered questions. . The others are so busy. What shall we do without him to calm our fears? At least God seemed to not allow him to die from AIDS.

Comment by: Kevin
(Baltimore, MD)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 9:03 pm UTC
Dr.Bob was truly the most wonderful person to ever reach out and touch the lives of so many. He has answered alot of my questions as well throughout the last few years. I was gazing through my e-mail just as I do everyday and suddenly saw this e-mail. I only had the pleasure of talking with you over e-mails with irrational fears. But you made a difference in my life as I know you have in many others. Thank you for the work that you did and have inspired so many others to continue doing. Rest well Dr.Bob, My god bless your journey.

Comment by: Mr P
(Perth, WA)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 8:48 pm UTC
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Dr Bob, I feel I knew him. His witty, funny & extremely informative articles touched me in a way that not much else has over the 25 years I have lived with HIV. May his legacy live on for many years to come. Bless you for allowing us to share your beautiful life & wisdom...

Comment by: Kevin
(Dallas, TX)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 8:47 pm UTC
I am so sorry to hear that Dr. Bob has left us. I am speechless. His upbeat, humorous outlook, as an HIV-poz guy always made me feel better, made me feel "normal," because he dared to live his life as a "normal" person, (whatever "normal" is.) Of course, what I mean by that statement is, daring to live life to the fullest, and believe that he (and I) are regular guys living with HIV, and not dying from HIV. On the other hand, I am stricken with grief that he is gone, seemingly suddenly, and wondering, "could this happen to me?" And I am filled with sorrow for his partner's loss, Dr. Steve. Both my partner and I are poz, so it causes a slightly different dynamic, I believe, and we have always felt that we are "there for each other" in a way that each of us can understand. Not saying that to mean anything against their "magnetic" relationship, as he always humorously referred to it. As a matter of fact, he always pointed to his own relationship as a source of comfort to others who were in a "magnetic" relationship, and how to be respectful of each other, and yet enjoy the physical side of the relationship.

At any rate, I will miss his words of wisdom terribly, and my heart goes out to his family, friends, and "TheBody" family.

Comment by: Rochelle
(Florida)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 8:38 pm UTC
I received the news via email today. I only prayed that it was not death, but that he had left The Body. I felt very saddened. He encouraged me to learn more about HIV. Thanks to him, the crippling fear is gone. His humour and compassion will be missed.

Comment by: Tom
(Riverside, CA)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 8:12 pm UTC
I am so deeply grief stricken on learning of Dr. Bob's passing. Be it known that nobody anywhere, in any time, can ever replace him. He was the "magnificent one." The one person that gave us all hope and salted it with truth and humor. He was my hero! My tears burn missing him so much!

Comment by: Gerard Callanan
(London)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 8:08 pm UTC
So sorry to hear about the loss of Dr Bob RIP. His warmth and kindness showed in every response to peoples worries. A great loss for all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

Comment by: Douglas
(West Hollywood)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 7:36 pm UTC
I'm shocked to hear of Dr. Bob's passing. For years I have used The Body as a resource and an educational tool for myself and those I encountered in my life. As an HIV positive man I found it both helpful and comforting to have such a resource available to me. And there is no one who has made a bigger impact on me via this website than Dr. Bob. His humor, candor and passion spoke to me and helped me become to the type of HIV positive man that I am today. He was a role model for me because of his attitude. I will deeply miss his commentaries. My thoughts go out to his partner and his family and friends who grieving because this tremendous loss. If it is any consolation, he was a great man in the eyes of so many in the HIV community. He will be missed.

Comment by: Kim
(Australia)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 7:04 pm UTC
I am so intensely saddened by this news. Dr Bob's answers on thebody.com have clarified so much for me about this disease, and did so with humour and without judgement. It made me happy to know that someone like him was in the world. I am sad he is no longer here with us. I hope wherever he is now, he is smiling just as broadly as in his profile picture on this site. Thank you Dr Bob. xx

Comment by: sandra12rThu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 6:40 pm UTC
I am devastated to hear this sad sad news, he was a true beacon of light, hope, patience and understanding! I wish his family the best during this painful time

Comment by: Rene
(TX)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 6:19 pm UTC
Dr Bob was a wealth of information when I first diagnosed. I am grateful that he presented his information in a manner that was comassionate and filled with humor, a reminder that laughter heals. Cool Runnings Dr Bob...

Comment by: Omar
(San Francisco)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 6:13 pm UTC
Dr. Bob was without a doubt one of the most inspiring individuals I ever had the pleasure to "meet" as a result of my own irrational anxieties about HIV and AIDS. He humanized the disease for me and made it less scary. I marveled at this intelligence, and enjoyed reading his responses for his witty and humorous remarks.

Now that you’ve gone off to the happy hunting grounds, now that the sun has set, and the trials and tribulations of this world are behind you, we all want to ask: If I do sleep with a 3 toed, bucktoothed, Wiccan midget with Republican leanings and a pierced belly button while I’m on a full moon layover in Shady Lane, do I still get into heaven, or do I get put on the wait list? Please answer in our prayers the same way you always have.

Regardless of who we were, the mistakes we’d made, or the situations we found ourselves in, you were always there for us. You created a place where those of us who “dodged the bullet” learned a few new things. You created a place where the non-fluffernutter could make friends and get valuable treatment information and guidance. You created a place where humor and reasoning drowned out fear and desperation. There are not enough words to express our gratitude, nor are there enough words to express the ways in which you touched our lives.

Comment by: Irene
(Florida)
Fri., Sep. 23, 2011 at 9:14 am UTCThank you for your tribute - it was one that made me laugh as Dr. Bob's questions & answers always have, and yet touched my heart at the same time. Thank you for using his words and expressing what I could not.

Comment by: john luke
(illinois)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:42 pm UTC
Another person asked that we might have details of Dr. bob's last days when it was appropriate. Yes, Please do publish that. It is part of closure that everyone needs this information. Just like any other loved one that we would hear a death of, we want to know what happened. It seemed like he knew he wasn't going to make it in his last "out of Office" post. Be well and that's an order. I cannot imagine life without such a beautiful angel to light the way. Please let us know about his last days when it is appropriate. Please. I wish I would have known he was ill, a million prayers would have gone up to heaven for Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Emily
(Namibia)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:18 pm UTC
I have been a regular on the body since 2000 and have read so many responses from Dr. Bob. I am very sadened by his passing. He has touch so many live especially for people living with HIV. He has given hope to many who had no hope. His legacy will truly live on. My sincere condolences to his loved one. He will surely be missed

Comment by: Scott Mickley
(Pensacola, FL)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:11 pm UTC
Further proof that God picks her favorite flowers first. I would say, "rest well" but obviously God must have something really important for you to do next. Thank you for your energy, your kindness and humanity and above all, your incredible wit and humor. We'll miss you, but you will remain forever vivid in our memories.

Comment by: Toni
(Fresno CA)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:06 pm UTC
I opened my email to read news of Dr. Bob's death. It saddens me to know I won't be reading his words on POZ. His strange but true answers were both knowledgable and incredibly humorous. That is the first section I read...I will miss you and so will those you helped. Here's hoping God gives you the biggest, brightest, most glittery wings he has!

Comment by: K.W
(United Kingdom)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:02 pm UTC
Dr. Bob when my own husband was found positive you gave me answers and comforted my soul in turbulent times. I am now living as an affected but very much in love , negative wife and mother caring for and supporting my partner 4 years on. Thanks to your advice and all your posts which I returned to read you gave me strength and hope. I will so miss your sense of humour, your resilience and your engaging manner of answering us. Rest peacefully and know your work, your hope will not be in vein. Thank you for it all!

Comment by: Darren
(Armstrong, BC Canada)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:35 pm UTC
I read through all the posts from the experts but I most often wanted to hear Dr. Bob's opinion on the subject as he would always find away to bring some to reason to have hope no matter what the subject. We've lost a very precious Gem that I don't can be replace. My deepest sympathies to his partner Steve.

Comment by: Mike
(Washington, DC)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:33 pm UTC
I am in shock right now as I have just learned of Dr. Bob's untimely death. I use to post to him, to answer a question of mine, but also to get his wit stirred up and he would respond to me with that wonderful humorous wit I simply adored reading and feeling as if he was beside me, talking to me in all his doctor gayness.

As a sidenote, I read Dr. Bob died of bacterial sepsis. I was this in 2001 and I don't know how I survived it, but for some reason back then. So, this is a double whammy to me. Mine didn't come from the hiv, but other health problems and I suspect, Dr. Bob had something similar. My heart goes out to his spouse and his family.

Comment by: Donald
(Sun City, AZ)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:21 pm UTC
This is very sad news, indeed. I spent more time on this site with Dr. Bob's posts than any other and often found them very helpful physically and spiritually.

Comment by: ILG
(Mexico City)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:16 pm UTC
I'm not HIV+ but I work so close with positive human beings and the loss of Dr. Bob, I'd say, is a loss for humanity. His guidance, his unique sense of humor. He was a wise man and now, he is a wise angel. Farewell my friend, take care of us wherever you may be.

Comment by: J. Dewey
(Beacon, NY)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:12 pm UTC
I was very saddened to read about Dr. Bob's passing. I worked at TheBody for a few years and it was always a pleasure to work with him. More importantly, his responses to people's questions on the forum were always respectful, warm, and very, very funny. He was tireless--he would answer questions at seemingly all hours, and he was always answering the same questions over and over (posted by different people) with patience and understanding. His forum was almost always the source for the "Strange But True" question, which was always my favorite feature of the e-mail newsletters. He was a model HIV educator and I often brought his viewpoint to my work in the community. I am sure he touched and improved many, many lives.

Comment by: joe
(nigeria)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:12 pm UTC
Jesus!! what a heart troubling news,he raised my hope to fight on. If this great friend of hope and couradge has to go at this time, well its a hopeless situation ahead for me.
Sleep in peace Bob.

Comment by: Juan
(San Antonio)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 4:05 pm UTC
I am in shock. Somehow I learned about the Body.com the day after I found out I was poz. Dr. Bob's posts were the first ones I read. I remember the feelings of relief, hope, strength, confidence, and love he gave me. I will definitely contribute to his foundation. It will give me a sense of connection to him. Vaya con Dios, mi amigo.

Comment by: kim k
(south africa)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:55 pm UTC
dr. bob was the first person i wrote to about being positive. i was looking for info and he personally answered me back. he was a very caring and genuine person...i still can't believe that he is gone so soon!

Comment by: Faizal D
(Ottawa, ON, Canada)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:54 pm UTC
I thought it was over for me last year when I tested positive with a CD4 of 125. Reading through Dr. Bob's forums made me realize that I could live, that I would live. He helped me to historicize this disease and not only treat it but treat myself in the process to goodness and compassion. RIP O, Sweet One!

Comment by: Nick
(Padova (Italy))
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:45 pm UTC
I posed several questions to Dr. Frascino and read many many of his replies to other posts and I always appreciated his expert clever and humorous answers. We all are going to miss him so much!

Comment by: Maleko
(San Diego, CA)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:44 pm UTC
I am so saddened to read this news -- I subscribed to thebody.com as a means to be better supportive of my positively-charged friends. Dr. Bob's pearls of humour-infused wisdom made for an enjoyable read to the many questions that he responded too. R.I.P. Dr. Bob -- my thoughts and prayers go out to you and yours.

Comment by: Chuck
(Nashville)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:14 pm UTC
Love to your husband and family in thier time of great loss.Im crying with both joy and sorrow. Joy for the Blessing he was to the world,the whole world, just look at the places of these posts.Thank you Dr Bob, Bless you and Love to your loved ones. Kindness Rules

Comment by: Tony
(Virginia)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:09 pm UTC
I'm in shock! I learned so much from Dr. Bob. His posts were informative, caring, witty, and often life changing. My thoughts and prayers to his friends and family and to all of us who appreciated his intelligence, courage, and humanity. Heaven has a new angel, Well done, Bob, well done.

Comment by: sandra12rThu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:03 pm UTC
I am devastated to hear this sad sad news, he was a true beacon of light, hope, patience and understanding! I wish his family the best during this painful time

Comment by: Roberto
(Mexico)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:47 pm UTC
It is very sad to read this bad news. You Dr. Bob was inspiration for me. Thanks for all the help and support during all my illness, you gave me confidence and brought light when everything seemed to dark on my life. Thanks for share your acknowledge, humor and friendship.

I will do my best to pay you back in simple way “Follow your VHI instructions/suggestions and keeping a smile in my face”, I will fight until the end as you did.

Comment by: Michael Koslow
(New York, NY)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:45 pm UTC
Shocking and upsetting news. His knowledge and wonderful sense of humor will be terribly missed. And a source of strength and comfort, as I followed his posts all these years. Condolences to his husband, family and friends.

Comment by: GaryS.
(Florida)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:43 pm UTC
My heart goes out to the friends and family of Dr. Frascino. I was diagnosed 9 years ago and I was terrified of everything about my condition. His competent advice, humor, and genuine compassion helped make my diagnosis and treatment easier to understand and that relived my anxiety and made my treatment more successful.

I rarely cry tears for people I've never actually met. This is one of those times.

Comment by: Brenda Chambers
(Salt Lake City, UT)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:40 pm UTC
Bob will be missed by me, so I join the long list of people he touched with compassion and love and his wonderful wit. May all those affected by his death be blessed with some comfort and peace! As bob would say "be well"

Comment by: Aurelio
(Connecticut)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:36 pm UTC
May the Lord Bless this Champion! It is with heart felt condolences that I wish his family! Very funny, charming and informative! He will be DEFINITELY miss!

Comment by: Thabang Sakala
(Lesotho)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:35 pm UTC
Go well, Dr Bob. the way you brought humour and pragmatism helped me (and I am sure, many others) to face HIV squarely and without fear. You were such a blessing. May your soul rest in peace. You may be gone, but you will not be forgotten.

Comment by: Jose
( Miami, FL)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:32 pm UTC
I just found out about this extremely sad news. OMG he answered my questions here on thebody.com when I was diagnosed with Aids 6 years ago! We should all be grateful for having him in our lives and he will be immortalized for he helped so many people - some were just faceless names on a computer screen like myself. None of us will never
forget him.

Comment by: Alan
(Boston)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:27 pm UTC
Dr. Bob helped me twice when I was going through some bad times thinking about HIV. His responses were reassuring, comforting and caring. I hope his family finds some solace in remembering the wonderful work he has done for so many people. He is one of the few people who truly cannot be replaced.

Comment by: Jason
(Dublin, Ireland )
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:23 pm UTC
Dr Bob was a very special person. I urge everyone to donate – no matter how small or big – to his charity. I am very sad for his partner, family and friends. RIP Dr Bob

Comment by: Enid Vazquez
(Chicago)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 1:25 pm UTC
I never met Dr. Bob, but I read and enjoyed (and learned from) his questions and answers. I was very impressed with his contributions to the world via The Body. I know it came from the heart. My condolences to his family and friends. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Enid, Positively Aware

Comment by: Jeff Berry
(Chicago, Illinois)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 1:07 pm UTC
I remember when I met him for the first time in Montreal a few years ago during a conference, I had been asked to dinner by Bonnie Goldman who was then Editor of TheBody, and we were with a large group of folks, and he and his partner Steve were seated at the other end of the table, so we didn’t get much of a chance to talk that evening. But afterwards, as we were leaving, standing outside the restaurant, he made a point to let me know how much he admired and respected Positively Aware and the work that we do. It’s funny the things that you remember, but it always stayed with me, and it meant a lot.

Please remember that the next time you are getting ready to say something to someone, and choose your words carefully. They can have a lasting and powerful effect.

Wherever you are right now, i want to thank you for everything you achieved in you're life. Thanks for helping me in the dark days of my life. For people like you i soo deeply hope their is a heaven, because you disserve one!!!

Comment by: Adn
(Rawalpindi, Pakistan)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 11:45 am UTC
I found this site couple of years ago and I came back to this site time and again to read the humours answers Dr Bob gave to soothe the nerves of innumerable people. When today I opened the site and logged into Anaemia and fatigue forum, I was shocked to read his death news. I have no words to describe my feelings. Dr Bob was not a blessing for HIVers, but he also helped me and many other people stay HIV free. The vacuum created by his death is quite difficult to fill. I really appreciate and respect his valuable efforts for helping millions around the globe.

Comment by: Asia
(Asia)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 11:01 am UTC
I am so shocked to realise dear bob is dead. He had been a pillar of strength for every reader on this website. My condolences to his family. Rest in peace. You will be missed.

Comment by: Corinne
(Philadelphia, PA)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 10:51 am UTC
I loved coming to TheBody's website specifically to read Dr. Bob's Safe Sex and HIV Prevention forum. I am deeply saddened and my heart goes out to Dr. Steve as well as all family and friends of theirs. We have lost an astounding man as well as a great advocate.

Comment by: LC
(South Africa)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 8:59 am UTC
Am shocked and saddened by this. I learnt a lot from the articles that he wrote. He was a great inspiration to me. My deepest sympathies to his family.

My fellow-feelings too to all those other "cyber-associates" of Dr. Bob's (people like me). It's clear we are all similarly stunned by this sad sad news. Wouldn't it be great if we could all come together to say goodbye to him.

A message to The Body. Please see that we, like any grieving relatives, friends, or work-colleagues, want to know and need to know more about this very unfortunate death. So far all we know is that Dr. Bob died of "bacterial sepsis".

So please, when it is appropriate, but as soon as possible, could you please publish an account of Dr. Bob's last days, what suddenly went wrong, what he went through?

And lastly, please could you publish a piece on bacterial sepsis and how it can affect people with HIV. (I realise that in Dr. Bob's case his death from sepsis may actually have had nothing to do with his having HIV.)

Comment by: line
(cameroon)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 6:55 am UTC
what a shocking news ,he who brought sunshine in our lives during difficults moments.who gave us hope to continue living by his numerous encorangement.we will forever remember u .u have gone ahead dr Bob preapare us a place .for sure u will meet on day.bye bye.rest in peace.

Comment by: Gary
(London, UK )
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:30 am UTC
What a terrible, terrible loss to all of us throughout the world both HIV+ & negative. His sound and no nonsense practical advice coupled by his wit and humour was so much appreciated by me in helping me come to terms with life, during the early days of my diagnosis. My condolences to his partner and family - Gary

Comment by: N
(India)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:28 am UTC
I have interacted with Dr. Bob couple of times during the past one year and have been following this forum since a long time now. I was shocked and deeply saddened to read this news. He will be an inspiration to lot of people for a long long time to come. May his soul rest in peace.

Comment by: CM
(New Delhi, India)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:07 am UTC
I was really shocked to hear sudden passing away of Dr. Bob. He was and will remain a tremendous source of inspiration for many many people. He was such a great soul. Really helped people equally with his great knowledge and expertise in the subject of HIV/AIDS. I really got enlightened and educated about learning everything about HIV after reading his posts on this website. I dont have words to express his achievements. May God rest his soul in peace.

Comment by: Philip D
(SF)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 3:06 am UTC
When someone dies, I believe that the size of the void that is left is in direct proportion to the lives that they touched and, whenever possible, made better. The passing of Dr Bob creates a void like a great abyss. We are lucky to have his supportive words, first-hand experience and thousands of examples of his wit and wisdom as long as this site exists. The fact that he won't "be here for the cure" makes me very sad for his husband and angry at this damn disease; but I promise to think of him fondly the great day that finally happens.

Some people are here on this planet to touch lives, and help others. I call them Angels. I know a couple of these people, and Dr. Bob is one of them. The fact that he was also positive gave me this incredible feeling of trust when I read his responses.
He has a special place in my heart.
Love, always

Comment by: Chris
(Australia)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:58 am UTC
There is sadness all around the globe at this news. The world is a little bit less wonderful with Dr. Bob not in it.

Comment by: Don
(SF)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:44 am UTC
Like so many others I never met Dr Bob but read his Q&A often and recommended it to so many others. To have helped so many by this website and his work is a true gift, and makes his loss all that much more painful to our community. Sincerest condolences to Steve his husband, who must be in great pain. May the thought that he was appreciated by so many others help to ease your sorrow.

Comment by: Not Thomas
(Southampton, England)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 2:29 am UTC
Dr Bob, you had the patience to answer my questions when I was in a dark place and asked for nothing in return. I struggle with depression and a nervous disposition. For me your influence went further than quashing my fear of HIV. Whenever I felt anxious about any life situation I would often find myself thinking, What would Doctor Bob do? And the answer was invariably that you would have shown courage and dealt with whatever was thrown your way. You are a true hero and source of inspiration. Despite never meeting you, I feel numb, the feeling of loss of a true friend and someone who cared unconditionally for so many. The saddest part is your continued optimism in answering questions to other positively charged people, ending your answers with “Lets stick around for the cure”. I always imagined that you would be here for that. I appeal to all of those tens if not hundreds of thousands or millions of people that have benefitted from Dr Bob’s wisdom to donate to his charity regularly, and to other HIV related charities, as well as passing on his safe sex message. Let us never forget that infectious Dr Bob smile.

You have answered many questions for me, some
that I posted and others through your answers on the forum.
I think of you often and want you to know that you will be missed. You have touched our lives with your selfless way, answering our questions, both big and small. God bless you Dr. Bob. You will be missed but never forgotten.

Comment by: Duane
(North Carolina)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 11:07 pm UTC
I am writing this as i wipe away my own tears because i feel like i lost a very close friend even though we never met. Dr. Bob was the one that could keep me sane when i was overcome with fear from this disease. I always trusted his answers more than anyone when i had a question and Dr. Bob will be missed but never forgotten.

Comment by: Ian in CA
(Los Angeles, CA)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 10:56 pm UTC
Dr. Bob has made such a difference in my life - and so many others. I feel so much love for him and his loving, beautiful partner Dr. Natterstad. Through their words I learned so much about LIFE, as well as life with HIV. I felt I knew them both so well, though I've never spoken to or met either one face to face. I hope that when he's ready, Dr. Natterstad will know how much he was and is a big part of all Dr. Bob gave so many. Just as Dr. Bob is so much a part of all he still gives to others, here on this site and with all he does to make a difference.

My love and thanks to you both forever.... and to every special person involved with this special place for people like me to go for some loving understanding and advice.

I'm crying for the loss, but joyous for what I've received from Dr. Bob and the other amazing people who care enough to post here and who helped me in ways they will probably never know when I was first diagnosed 6 years ago this month.

I am alive, happy, in love with an amazing man, healthy and blessed so very much. In no small part thanks to the efforts of Dr. Bob, Dr. Natterstad and all the other Doctors and everyone who took the time out of their days to care about people like me when I needed them most.

In honor of Dr. Bob and all the others involved here at TheBody.com - I will always do my best to do all I can to lovingly help other through the journey they are here on earth for. Often, this has involved telling people about this site!

My love to you forever Dr. Bob! Rest in happy, utterly complete peace! Know you are loved. I hope you are able to forever give Dr Natterstad, some indication that your are still with him.... as he carries on. : )

Comment by: William
(Cincinnati, OH)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:47 pm UTC
OMG. I can't believe this. I am a long time reader of Dr. Bob's posts. Dr. Bob was a hero to me. He is a man who, inspite of a terrible illness chose to use it to help and comfort so many people. I wrote to Dr. Bob personally two times in my life at an extremely difficult time. He replied to both letters. He was kind and sincere, patient and loving with me. I owe him so much. Bob, I miss you badly already. I love you

Comment by: Bryan
(Connecticut)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 8:55 pm UTC
I have read your threads and blog for such a long time. You were such an incredibly good person, who dealt with your illness with Grace in the atmosphere of so many that were looking for you to make them feel better, in hoping that they didn't have something you fought every day with. Your truly an inspiration to everyone whether or not what your individual status was. You will be missed. Truly.

I am somewhat disappointed at this site that they took down your last post, hopefully it was a mistake. I think it really showed your true dedication and passion to your cause. I will post it because I think that it's an appropriate post to leave us with. Thank You.

WAITING FOR A REPLY FROM DR. BOB??? PLEASE READ THIS!
Sep 14, 2011

WAITING FOR A REPLY FROM DR. BOB??? PLEASE READ THIS!

Response from Dr. Frascino

Hello Everyone, Consider this a more personalized version of one of those "I'm out of the office until . . ." automatic e-mail replies. I won't be reading or responding to questions for the next week. Don't panic! Remember 99.999% of the information requested can be found in the archives. Really, you are not the only person who has had sex with a Republican bisexual transgendered Mormon midget with webbed feet wearing a strap-on. Really, you're not!

I promise to give prizes out to anyone who uses the archives while I'm away.

First Prize (most valuable): you get the information and/or reassurance you are so desperately searching for.

Second Prize (therapeutic): you get some smiles and laughs reading just how looney some fluffernutters can become as a result of HIV anxiety.

Third Prize (priceless): An sensual massage (with happy ending) given by yours truly! Just kidding. No third prize!

Comment by: Greg
(Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, UK.)
Thu., Sep. 22, 2011 at 7:38 am UTCTo Bryan and to the Moderator, thank you for posting this final message of Bob's here for us all to read! It's a very important "last link", "last glimpse" of the man who was so important to so many people all over the planet.

So, we learn that in his final days he was still making the effort to bring a smile, in writing:

"Really, you are not the only person who has had sex with a Republican bisexual transgendered Mormon midget with webbed feet wearing a strap-on. Really, you're not!"

Comment by: Venkat
(Sydney, Australia)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 7:42 pm UTC
Dr Bob you are a great person, you answered my query in May which had changed my life. I was very anxious at that time about my status but your reply made me cool down in my self and focus on my life.

We will all miss you Dr.Bob, Your soul will be among the gods in heaven. Rest in Peace

Comment by: Jerry
(Ontario, CA)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 7:11 pm UTC
I am SHOCKED of this sad news. Dr. Bob was always responsive, knowledgeable, compassionate, and witty when he responded to my questions here on The Body. I am just so sorry and am praying for his family & all loved ones. He will be sorely missed. :'(

Comment by: Frank Foster
(Houston, TX)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 7:04 pm UTC
My sincere condolences to his partner and relatives. We have lost a great person and advisor. I will miss your wit and helpful advice.

Comment by: Mary Scriver
(Montana)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 5:53 pm UTC
Even for an old celibate solitary woman without HIV, Dr. Bob was an inspiration in his attitude, his joyous metaphors, his droll but clear explanations, and his generous intelligence. If imitation is the sincerest praise, we should all try to be like him in these aspects.

Comment by: Isabelle
(Oregon)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 5:36 pm UTC
It had been a long time since I last visited the body... today, I suddenly felt like listening to doctor Bob's ever positive cyber-voice. I still can't believe that he'll never again answer any of these sometimes serious, sometimes silly questions that were daily put to him. I never imagined someone like him could pass away. I don't think it will ever be possible for anyone to fill the empty space he left on this website. His patience, his wonderful sense of humor and his deep insight will be deeply missed. For me, although it will remind a great source of inspiration, The Body will never be the same again. My heart goes out to Dr Steve and their families.

Comment by: Vincent
(New Jersey)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 4:44 pm UTC
Dr. Bob helped me by answering my questions and calm my fears of being infected with HIV. It has been more than 6 months since I first wrote to him, and he told me that I most likely did not get infected. He was right. Its been 27 weeks since my exposure and took PEP for 28 days. I want to thank him for helping me and millions others. God knows how good he was and will be rewarded. I pray for his eternal rest. I'm crying as I write this. Thank you Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Kevin
(Canada)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 4:27 pm UTC
I am absolutely shocked at this news. My condolensces go out to his husband. Dr. Bob's rapid wit and humour made something so serious light and made me want to come onto the forum just to read his answers. RIP sir, you will be remembered for years to come.

Comment by: JS
(Singapore)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 4:20 pm UTC
Doctor Robert was very kind to answer my questions during my hardest time. It takes a true gentleman to reach out and offer help to a complete stranger and he was doing this every day for all of us. He was a great man who was truly committed to helping those in need. He will be deeply missed.

Comment by: Gregory Lazo
(Cary, NC)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 2:53 pm UTC
All the best to his husband, Dr Natterstad-my sincerest regrets for your loss, I hope you are surrounded by loved ones right now. Dr Frascino's wry take on living with HIV has been a constant for me since the beginning. A brilliant and gentle man, my deepest condolences to you.

Comment by: BFF
(Brazil)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 2:08 pm UTC
Well, I found this site and "Doc Bob"'s forum more than an year ago. He helped me so much that I couldn't thank him even in a million of years.

He answered lots of questions. I remember I sent a book to him and he told me he loved it, that the book were in his foundation office.

I had seen the post saying that he wouldn't see the messages for a week. I remember I thought "I just hope everything is all right".

But then I saw that message... And I just can't believe it. It's a hard day.. I just can't work and just can't think about anything but him...

May God put him in one of the best places of the heaven. He was an angel, a fantastic person, with a wonderful sense of humor.

I've donated many times. It's been some 4 ou 5 months that I didn't made any donation, but I'll start doing it again.

Unfortunatelly we can't bring him back, but we can support his work, we can keep his memory alive, we can do exactly what he would like us to.

May God give strenghts to his family and friends, to dr. Steve, and to all loved ones of him.

Comment by: Ginger W
(Santa Rosa, CA)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 1:48 pm UTC
Dr. Bob was my doctor in Sunnyvale and one of the most caring loving funny people I have ever met his smile was infectious and he would answer every question giving me the feeling that no question was too small to be answered. Over the years I have referred many newly diagnosed to his website for answers to their questions. Now I feel a huge emptiness and I am sad beyond my own belief I thought he would be here forever and now forever is gone.

Comment by: stuart
(stanford, ca)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 1:45 pm UTC
a friend and former colleague of bob's, i too am deeply saddened by this loss. a remarkable man, he helped so many in so many ways; a gift that can inspire us all to be kind and compassionate. sincere condolences to steve & bob's family.

Comment by: Mary R
(South Carolina)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:55 pm UTC
As a person who struggled with extreme fear even 10 years after a possible risk, his humor, gentleness, and love was such a relief...and blessing. I KNOW HE IS AN ANGEL-- he was for me. The world is a little less bright without him!

Comment by: Akash
(India)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:35 pm UTC
Such a great loss to humanity.I have never met a person so cheerful and full of positive attitude.I was desperately waiting for the week to get over and to read Dr responses. Am stunned!!!!!.God may his soul rest in peace!!.We will always remember you Dr BOB.I wish there is a cure soon for people suffering from the dreaded infection called HIV! and the cure dedicated to him!!!!!:(

Comment by: J Clark
(St. Paul, MN)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:31 pm UTC
Wow. I certainly wasn't expecting this news. I have never met Dr. Bob, but his humorous posts have provided me hope and direction since my diagnosis. It is a shame he wont be alive to see the end of this disease. I hope I honor him by continuing to follow his advice and survive to cross the finish line.
Thanks, Love, and Peace Dr. Bob. You are greatly appreciated and greatly missed.

Comment by: Randy
(Indiana)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:21 pm UTC
I never met Bob in person but I feel like I just lost a great friend. He answered a few of my questions in the past. I always looked forward to reading his witty articles and answers. He was a great man.

Comment by: Jeremy
(London)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:13 pm UTC
His loss is shocking and unexpected. He possessed a wonderful combination of humour, compassion, wisdom and professional expertise which shone through in every response he posted. Although I only knew him from this site I sensed a connection with him and had a deep admiration for the sincerity of his empathy. His loss must be incredibly painful for his partner, friends and family and whilst nothing can be said to appease that some solace can perhaps be gained from the way he lived his life - he touched so many people in a profound and genuine way that must surely be one of the greatest legacies any individual can ever wish to achieve.

Comment by: Virginia
(Shreveport, La.)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 11:28 am UTC
Even though I never met Dr. Bob he was like a personal friend to me. I work in HIV prevention and over the years he really taught me alot. I have been following him since 2001. I am really going to miss him and all of his information that he shared with us over the years. I will keep his family friends in my prayers.

Comment by: louise
(florida)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 10:58 am UTC
I am devastated. I have tried to talk to friends and family about his passing and no one understands my deep attachment to him. He has gotten me through the last 2 years of my life. I have no idea what is going to get me through anymore. Such a loss and I don't even understand what happened, what he had or why he would be taken from people who need him so desperately.

Comment by: Peter
(DC)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 10:57 am UTC
Dr. Bob, a glorious creation simply without compare. His contributions to those in need of knowldege and comfort, offered with the rare gift of outrageous humor, cannot be fully captured in words. We share with Dr. Steve the profound grief of Dr. Bob's shockingly early passing, but will be ever thankful for the blessing of sharing this planet for a time with Dr. Bob. Job superbly done! Requiescat in pace.

Comment by: Charles
(Eatontown, NJ)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:41 am UTC
Bob has given me so much support and information about hiv that his passing is a real loss to me and others living with HIV. I have only been hiv+ since July 2010 but have learned so much from him and the responses he has made to other's questions and concerns. To Steve, his husband, we all grieve with you and I just sent out a huge cyber hug to you. Take comfort in the work both you and Bob have done for all of us "positively charged" people as a key step in dealing with our status and future. We love you Bob! Steve stay strong....Charles

Comment by: E. Scott
(Washington, DC)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:40 am UTC
Dear Bob, although i never met you in person I feel I know you in spirit. Through many tough times, all i needed was to turn on "thebody.com" and read your comments to "hear" your voice, and all of a sudden, I felt so much better. You spread a lot of joy in this world, and also you touched so many people and allayed their deepest anxieties..including mine. Your legacy lives on through all lives that you touch. You lived and spent your time here on Earth very well. Thank you.

Comment by: David
(England, UK.)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:36 am UTC
I am devastated. Robert was truly a beacon. To me, here in England, he was a figure I identified with and admired. Come to think of it, by way of the Internet Robert was my rock over there in the USA, my greatest rock anywhere actually, apart from my friends and family here. It's testament to what a fine person he was that he has been "the friend" of people all over the world, a friend to people like me, people who have never actually met him.

I am really shocked by this and the rest of today is going to be very sad.

But a thousand thanks to you, Bob, for being who you were. You were truly an inspiration. You are gone but your memory will remain a very very long time.

Comment by: Nathan
(London UK)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:33 am UTC
Say what?! How? Seriously, I mean how did this happen? Non HIV related what? Sorry to sound proprietorial but when a friend dies one wants to know...
I read it and I read it again and sat there with my mouth open like a fish out of water. If I fel a deep sense of angry loss, a guy who only knew 'Dr Bob' from this site then how must this close to him feel?

Its terrible. He was there and now he's not. He made himself so freely available and was a resource for so many people and helped so many and in his own inimitable way, a light in the world has been snuffed out, this man had courage and one's heart bleeds for the loss of such a man.

Comment by: Maria
(illinois)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 10:53 am UTCI echo your feelings. I am bleeding. I feel like our hope has just died. I don't understand what he had or how he got it. I am wishing for more details as well. He got me through the day. Now what? His poor family

Comment by: L. Kirsanow
(Austin)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:27 am UTC
I had the honor of meeting you and later working at your benefit while you and Steve entertained us with your piano talents and incredible wit. What a very sad day for us all. My heart and thoughts go to you, Steve, and for all of those you have touched during your journey here on this earth.

Comment by: Ted Town
(London, Ontario)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:24 am UTC
I work in an anonymous HIV testing site and have been recommending Dr. Bob’s columns to our clients for years. I would tell them his unique combination of compassion and humour would help them through just about anything, including a positive diagnosis. I am saddened by the news, privileged that he responded to a couple of my posts, and inspired by his embrace of life. Quisiera dar mis condolencias para Dr. Steve.

Comment by: Trevor Field
(Johannesburg South Africa)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 8:52 am UTC
I am dumbstuck at the news of Dr Bob's passing, I am a straight guy living in Africa and am HIV neg.....ALL my knowledge on HIV and associated complaints came from and were answered by Dr Bob. He was a comedian, a Doctor, A sensative person and even though my contact with him was only cyber i believe a friend. My World and the World has lost a true gentleman.....Love and thoughts from Africa.

Comment by: Michael Hicks
(Ottawa Canada)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 8:39 am UTC
To those who say “The internet has destroyed our social fabric”, I beg to differ. I live in Ottawa Canada (I’ve read comments from others, in other countries), when I questioned my own doctors, I would send off an email to a man I’ve never met- I knew him, as “Dr. Bob”. No sugar, maybe a little Canadian maple syrup; always laughter; most importantly, a man who cared, Loved life; Loved the piano. I am deeply saddened by his passing. Dr Bob is a Star that has gone Super Nova. If I close my eyes and listen quietly, I can hear his laughter; his piano; his advice and his honesty- now, I will hear it in the cosmos. Dr Bob, wherever you are, Thanks.

Comment by: David
(England, UK.)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 9:43 am UTCH.A., this is just to say that it's great to know another person here in the UK has held Dr. Bob in such high regard. I expect many more here in the UK will be shocked although not everyone will post a message saying so. Best wishes to you. We'll keep his attitude going!

Comment by: Annika
(Sweden)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 5:47 am UTC
I will miss you very, very much. My heart goes out to your husband and to all fellow HIV'ers who'll miss your inputs and your unbeatable humor.
"Another good one died young"

Comment by: Big Gay Al
(Houston)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 5:30 am UTC
Wow. I'm stunned. I loved reading Dr. Bob's take on things. He put it out straight to the point, but with humor and humanity. We've lost a great friend and my thoughts go out to his partner, family and many friends and colleagues.

Comment by: David
(Indianapolis)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 3:49 am UTC
I don't know what to say. I didn't know Dr. Bob personally, but I feel I've lost a good friend. This is just incredibly sad and unfair.

I was reading through some of his last Q&A's. He was still answering questions as late as Sept 14--just 3 days before his death. So, this had to be definitely unexpected. I read the question "You Are The Man" posted on 9/11. What the person said gave me chills. He said, "Stay well and may god protect you Dr. Bob." Dr. Bob then thanks him for his kind words and how it meant a lot to him to know what he does helps people. I'm so glad he knew that. He obviously knew that or he wouldn't have spent hours and probably weeks or even months in total reading and answering questions.

I would ask that everyone who can, please join me in making a donation to his charity.

Comment by: Hilly
(France)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 3:38 am UTC
My sincere condolences to his partner, family, friends and colleagues. Knowing him only "virtually" from his unique messages, he must have been a wonderful person to be around. He had to leave this world much too early, it is very sad. He helped so many people with his advice and moral support - Thank you so much, Dr Bob.

Comment by: Will (Free Willy)
(Seattle)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 3:03 am UTC
Dr. Bob, I will always be grateful for your support that you gave to me so freely, and I will cherish the memory of your humor and courage and candor. Peace, brother.

Comment by: Ted
(Louisville)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 2:16 am UTC
Like everyone else, I was shocked to read the message. It just didn't seem real to me. This man was alive in every sense of the word. It just doesn't seem like this could be possible. I've come a long way in accepting my poz status and with trying to move on. I just told my partner over the weekend that I know things will be okay, because of seeing people like Dr. Bob and others older than I doing so well--being dx'd before HAART. I would ask myself what my problem is with getting on with life when I would read about Dr. Bob traveling to down under and other great work and vacation destinations. And, not to mention all his work with HIV, the charity, being a husband, and, yes, answering all those "Can I get HIV from a fart?" questions. He wanted to educate people about HIV and he accomplished that.

I'm sitting here remembering his phrase, "Let's be here for the cure." It is so sad that he will not be here to see that cure. But, he lived his life not letting HIV control it. My deepest sympathies to his husband and family.

Comment by: Angela
(Entebbe, Uganda)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 2:16 am UTC
It is sad that such a resourceful person has left the world when we still needed him. I was read Bob's comments and found them very encouraging for he gave his best. The world will always miss and remember him. May his soul rest in peace.

Comment by: Mr J
(South Africa,Jo'burg)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 1:39 am UTC
I am deeply,deeply saddened, I owe all my strength to Dr Bob.He gave me hope when I had none. Thank you Dr Bob, In your honour I will fight on and we must now push even more for a cure.Thank you my hero

Comment by: Coffee Girl
(Minnesota)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 1:11 am UTC
I am in tears. Words can not express how saddened I am to hear of Dr. Bob's passing. He was truly a beacon of hope to many, and his wisdom and humor dragged me out of dark places on multiple occasions. He was a beautiful spirit, and continues to be so. My heart goes out to his husband. Know that a girl in Minnesota loves you, Dr. Bob!

Comment by: Jim
(Lansdowne, Pennsylvania)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:59 am UTC
I am deeply saddened by this tragic news. Dr. Bob was such a huge source of knowledge and compassion. You felt his concern for whatever problem you were having. His answers were right on and often reflected his own experience as a positive man. What I enjoyed most about Dr. Bob was his sense of humor. Such an incredible wit. He managed to make us smile in the midst of our dilemmas. What a gift he gave us. Thank you Dr. Bob. We will all remember you fondly.

Comment by: Sean
(Singapore)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 10:49 am UTCI am deeply shocked at Dr Bob's sudden passing. I have always found him to be inspiring, concerned for others, a tower of strength despite the difficulties in his life. I will certainly miss his witty, homourous and informative posts. God bless him, and all his loved ones, esp his partner Steve. Please remain strong, as he would have wanted you to, and continue the wonderful work with the Foundation. Love and blessings always.

Comment by: Freaked Out Francophobe
(Cyberspace)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:15 am UTC
I was quite shocked, saddened and in complete disbelief when I read this tragic news on TheBody.com today -- I've actually had to do double, triple and quadruple takes -- yes, I re-read the message multiple times, to say the least -- just to make sure my mind wasn't playing tricks on me.

Alas, my mind wasn't playing tricks on me. We have lost one of the greatest -- if not the greatest -- educators on the HIV preventive education of our times.

Although Dr. Bob paved a great path for others to follow in his footsteps, he left large "combat boots" to fill -- a shoe size I doubt many will have the ability to fill.

Nonetheless, a cavernous void will persist in all of our hearts over Dr. Bob's passing.

Dr. Bob pretty much reached down into the abysmal pit I dug myself into two years ago and pulled me out. He pretty much saved my life -- not physically -- but mentally.

To those who try to justify putting themselves at continued risk for HIV by believing that HIV is just a chronic and manageable condition like diabetes, please take heed to Dr. Bob's last message -- his message is ironically embedded in his passing -- HIV, although no longer a death sentence, is still lethal.

Comment by: G. L.
(California)
Wed., Sep. 21, 2011 at 12:07 am UTC
Hurt, shocked and sad to hear the news. Dr. Bob was such a great person. I didn't know him personally, but his Forum here on The Body educated me so well. It was amazing that he was there to answer questions. My condolences to his husband, loved ones and friends. Rest in peace Robert J. Frascino.

Comment by: OJ
(Osaka, Japan)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 11:58 pm UTC
I am deeply saddened by this loss. Dr. Bob has been an inspiration and an icon to me ever since I started visiting this website. He will be greatly missed. RIP!

Comment by: John-Manuel Andriote
(Norwich, CT)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 11:51 pm UTC
I did a double-take when I saw the headline about Dr. Bob's death. I'm astonished and saddened. Such a bright "positively charged" spirit who gave huge helpings of joy along with his prescriptions for how to live well with HIV. My condolences to his partner, other family and friends.

Comment by: Jose
(Miami, FL)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 11:51 pm UTC
I am stunned. I will miss you immensely, Dr. Bob. You made a real difference in this world and so many of us are really happy to have have known you and read your posts. I am truly grateful.

Comment by: J
(Reno)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 10:59 pm UTC
I just realized he had passed.I never meet him but what a great guy for helping so many people.Sad to see him pass but so greatful someone like him helped myself and those in need.

Comment by: Jubin
(London UK)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 10:51 pm UTC
Stunned and deeply saddened. And angered by the injustice of it all. What just and humane force or God would allow such a tragedy to occur? It beggars belief. He was an inspiration to me and so many others. Feel deep sorrow for the loss suffered by his beloved partner, and family, friends and the wider HIV community. We shall not see the likes of him again: irrepressible, uplifting, wise and humane Dr Bob. Truly a sad day. Thanks for all your support and for giving so much of yourself to others. Sleep soft Dr Bob wherever you may be

Comment by: Michael
(Dayton, OH)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 10:51 pm UTC
I am deeply saddened by Dr. Bob's passing. His columns provided me help and assistance when I needed answers. This is truly a great loss for humanity and especially those searching for answers about HIV. May his loved ones find peace. Thank you, Dr. Bob.

Comment by: Din
(Mexico City)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 9:45 pm UTC
I am astonished! I am really sad and give my most sincere condolences to everyone who knew him.
He was an inspiration to me when I found out I was positive, and as the year went by, I kept returning to his posts, to his answers, because he would make me feel that, despite the doubts, the dangers, the unknown, life is worth living and there will always be someone to turn to.

Thank you, Rob! I will try to be more like you, ever smiling, ever patient, ever optimistic.

Comment by: T
(Vienna)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 9:30 pm UTC
Although I never got my reply from Dr.Bob for my question, which I decided to post only after 2 weeks of reading his pages, I was shocked and saddened when I heard of this tragic news. He was so kind and humorous in his responses and I felt only he could answer what I had to ask. Gone so soon, he will certainly not be forgotten by many,

Comment by: Don
(Boston)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 9:14 pm UTC
Very sad to hear of Dr. Bob's passing. I cannot tell you the number of times he gave me hope when I had none. I will be eternally grateful for his advice and counsel. RIP, Dr. Bob, and a great big heartfelt THANK YOU!

Comment by: Daniela
(Ontario, Canada )
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 9:08 pm UTC
I am so sad to hear Dr. Frascino passed away. He was such a sweet, funny and wise man, one who brought light and comfort to those who needed it most. He is truly an inspiration and an example of how reason, knowledge and compassion can work together to better the lives of many. While he will be greatly missed, his memory will continue to live in the minds of all us who were one way or another touched by him. My deepest condolences to his family, our thoughts and our prayers are with you.

Comment by: John
(San Diego, CA)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 9:05 pm UTC
Even though I have never met dr bob, I am deeply saddened by these news, rest in peace dr bob you will always be remembered. "heroes may fall.....but legends never die"

Comment by: Ryan
(North Carolina)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 8:40 pm UTC
We lost one of the few people sent from god to be a light amidst an epidemic filled with such darkness. His compassion, empathy and most importantly his courage truly changed me forever. I cannot begin to understand the courage it would take to help those who "might" be positive feel better when he himself battled this epidemic. I, like so many others did not meet Dr. Bob, but checked in on his forum daily and truly felt like he was a close friend. We lost one of the true angels left on earth. Gone but never forgotten.

Comment by: Donald
(Los Angeles)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 8:37 pm UTC
What a special man, compassionate, knowledgeable, humorous and expert in his field. The death of this wonderful man takes me back years to the time when the deaths of equally wonderful men was a fact of life at least every other day. I hope he felt and experienced the gift of 20 "extra" years that Fate gave him, knew at the end that his life had been rich and full.

Comment by: Mark
(Aztec, New Mexico)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 8:35 pm UTC
Dr. Bob's passing is a great loss to the HIV community and all those who have benefitted from his knowledge, and who were lifted by his wit.
He will be missed.

Comment by: J
(West Hollywood,ca)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 8:25 pm UTC
If it weren't for dr bob my partner of a year now would have never even started dating me. When I told him of my status he freaked. Dr Bob educated him and to this day were a very happy, healthy magnetic couple. Dr bob. You made my life so happy. Thank you.

Comment by: Martha
(Redwood city , ca)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 8:12 pm UTC
When I first read that doctor Bob had passed away I was ready stunned and sad because how cam beautiful people like him just go so tragically. I might not have known him personally but I considered him a friend and a role model. He never gave up and always kept fighting. He reached millions trough his lives work. He will be missed and all I can say is THANK YOU Dr. Bob for everything!

Comment by: Gregory
(Riverside, County)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 8:10 pm UTC
Dear Bob,
You are going to be missed! Your legacy will continue on in the lives of everyone you have touched, and that would be to numerous to count. My prayers to Bob's partner, family, and friends.

Comment by: Miles
(San Diego, CA)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:58 pm UTC
What a shock, and a loss for all of us. I never met Bob but loved his writing. This is like losing a friend. May his spirit flourish.

Comment by: Brian
(West Hollywood, CA)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:57 pm UTC
I was diagnosed more than five years ago, and there were times I would read Dr. Bob's posts, which he would often end by saying "I'm here if you need me, OK?" I felt like he really was there for me even though I never met him in person or even corresponded with him. I'm so sad to learn of his passing. My thoughts are truly with his family, friends, and other loved ones.

Comment by: Carl
(Phoenix, Az)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:40 pm UTC
I am stunned and saddened by this news. He was a voice of reason and hope for so many. His words told you not to give up or be ashamed.. Hold ones head up and live. Thank you for all kind words! You will be missed.

Comment by: Edu
(Madrid, Spain)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:36 pm UTC
I will always remember him. I think there are some people who shoud be known all over the world. He was so close to people who needed help...Great great great man, thank you for all

Comment by: Janet Madsen
(Vancouver, Canada)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:27 pm UTC
So sorry to hear this, and sending sympathy to those who knew him personally. I didn't, but felt graced with his lively and lovely presence in his writing. As I said to a colleague, he was a light online. Here at Positive Women's Network we've referred folks to him many times. All the best to his loved ones and community.

Comment by: Brad Knoernschild
(San Francisco, CA)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:12 pm UTC
A remarkable individual who touched so many people in their ability to understand and live with hiv! I am sure that his messages will help many more in the years to come.
RIP

Comment by: Reynier R
(Costa Rica)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 7:05 pm UTC
This news is truly sad. I had gotten used to the cheerful, alwas positive approach Dr. Bob took when giving us feedback on HIV topics. My respect goes to him, his work -on this forum and out ouf it-, and my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Comment by: Nelson Vergel
(Houston)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 6:51 pm UTC
I am so sad, horribly sad for this loss to his family and to all of us who were touched and inspired by his column and blog at TheBody.com.

What a great man with great passion to touch people's lives every single day.
I hope his partner and family find peace in this grieving time. I wish there was something we all could do to ease their pain.

Comment by: Alex
(Moscow, Russia)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 6:46 pm UTC
Such a tragic loss. He was among the very few who cheered me up with his wit and sense of humor while providing exceptionally valuable guidance in hard times of initiating the treatment and during the complications of it. The importance of staying positive while being positive. My heart goes out to his family and friends. He will be remembered.

Comment by: Patti
(New York)
Tue., Sep. 20, 2011 at 6:41 pm UTC
I am so saddened by this news...I was diagnosed 8 yrs ago and read his posts all the time..he was a bright star and made me laugh so many times when I really wanted to cry..RIP Dr. Bob. You will be missed.
Patti

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